Page 90 of The Pansy Paradox
“Because he wasn’t a member of the Enclave.”
That sounds elitist. “What does it say in my records? That my father was just some local guy?”
“Not in so many words, but yes, essentially.”
“That’s ridiculous.”
“It is, for a variety of reasons, but locals aren’t included in the records or agent lineage.”
“But why?” I ask again. “Couldn’t they have descended from a traveler, but no one knows it?”
“Absolutely.” He considers me from over the top of the certificate. “But it doesn’t explain where I’ve seen your father’s name before.”
Oh, he looks so exasperated. He fairly radiates frustration. “This is going to keep you up all night, isn’t it?”
He opens his mouth to protest. I know it’s a protest; those have their own flavor. Then he simply sighs. “Most likely.”
“Well, here’s something to keep you busy.” I hand him the title.
It takes a moment for it to sink in. Because yes, the title is for the car in my garage. The red 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce does not belong to Rose Little. Instead, the name on the title reads Harrison Darnelle.
“Surprise!” I say when Henry doesn’t speak.
“You don’t mean … I couldn’t possibly?—”
“It was your father’s. That makes it yours.”
“I really don’t think?—”
“Dinner,” I counter. “You promised me dinner.”
He pauses, and his lips twitch. He’s repressing a smile, but there’s a hint of dimple anyway. “I did, didn’t I?”
“We can talk about who owns the car over?—”
“Enchiladas and some lime and coriander rice?”
That. Sounds. Amazing. “Yes. We’ll talk about who owns the car over enchiladas.” And when I say who owns, I absolutely mean him.
Henry returns to packing boxes, and I can’t help but bask in a bit of triumph.
I’m pretty sure I’ve won this round.
Part Three
The Edge Of Nowhere
Chapter 36
Pansy
King’s End, Minnesota
Thursday, July 13
It’s early Thursday morning, the sun just cresting the horizon, and I’m following Henry’s circuitous trail through the cemetery. He stops every few minutes, consults his phone, and then picks up the walk again. He’s certain we’re on the right path to the covered bridge.
I’m certain we’re going in circles.
