Redhead by the Side of the Road

After his morning run, Micah decides to skip showering and shaving, leaving him more time for breakfast. He tries to find more ways to indulge himself but soon realizes he does not have much entertainment. He decides to walk to the free-book place, realizing how long it’s been since he’s read. He compares himself to a slug. 

Outside, paramedics are wheeling Luella away on a stretcher. Luella’s husband, Donnie, tells Micah that Luella “took a turn” (140). Micah offers him a ride to the hospital, but Donnie says he’ll manage. Micah observes that Luella is conscious and tells Donnie to reach out if he needs anything. As the ambulance pulls away, Micah notices Brink outside the used clothing store across the street. Micah asks what he’s doing but doesn’t approach. Brink explains that he needed a change of clothes. Micah invites Brink in for coffee, and Brink accepts. Micah feels excited that he might be able to reunite Lorna and Brink. He calculates the best way to communicate with Lorna. 

Brink tells Micah he’s been staying at a motel and taking cabs around the city. Micah asks if Brink has looked for work, but Brink hasn’t.