A Determined Paul Begins to See the Light
Jenny Page Breakfast today is eggs again. Never over-easy, just scrambled. Like all the people in here. Junior slides the tray under the door, like usual, and taps on one of the…
fiction
Cassie and Jill Conspire on Construction
Gunnar Olafsson I’ve been on a permanent high about the Riverside renovation project ever since Bitsy and I met with the contractors, and the sun outside my doorstep this morning isn’t hurting…
If It’s Monday, It Must Be Another Interrogation
Take two with Dr. Menchy today, I realize as I open my eyes. My breakfast arrives under the locked door, per usual. It’s hot cereal day, though by the time…
The Peacock in Bitsy Rears its Head
I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the Riverside and our ideas about revitalizing it. Cassie and I both have ideas about how to go forward. I don’t usually…
Bentley Clears the Air with Thornton
I decide on a whim to show up at Thornton’s office in the historical building unannounced. My intention is to inform Thornton of the change in my employment status, and…
Paul Begins to Face the Music, Once and for All
I have a vague recollection of Theodora. From what Trish and Stacey say, she’s nice enough. Listens the way a therapist would listen. Offers support, clarity. I’m not sure why…
Theodora Answers the Call from Middle Valley
The last place on Planet Earth I’d like to be right now is calling me to come back and conduct an exorcism. Okay, maybe not an exorcism, but it’s pretty…
Bentley’s Big-Time Bargain
In recent days, I have been feeling a little antsy about my situation – frankly, what camp I was in. On one hand, there’s Albert – paying me well, letting…
Silas Alerts Mercury to His Happy News
In case you hadn’t noticed, things happen slowly around here. I realize as I step out into the grey morning that it’s been nearly two months since my head-clearing trip…
How to Ditch Gatsby for Good: A Complete Guide
The seasons in Middle Valley are, to me, what makes living here so worthwhile. Right now, we’re in one of my favorite times, the days between summer and fall. The…