The Dull Way Out

Like there was nothing left to say after that conversation in the study, we spent the whole next day shooting, mostly outdoors, by the Quabbin and in the woods. They made me do four different shots of the hundred words, plus their B roll, like I was some frigging model showing off New England rural fashion. By dinner time, the three of us were exhausted and we didn’t linger late afterwards. Early the next morning, we parted with quick hugs and they left. I didn’t see or hear from them again.

August brought another visit of Mr. Edward and his family on the first weekend.

And Brandon’s birthday on the 18. I could feel it marching on a week in advance, and decided I felt strong enough to send him something simple, just to let him know I recalled the date. I would’ve made it a letter over the post mail, but I didn’t have the guts or the heart to write to him. I spent the next days trying to come up with a fitting gift.

On Friday, I was