The epilogue notes that the assailants connected to Theo’s death are never identified or prosecuted, while Pearce Glissen remains influential and irritated that his older brother, now heir to an art empire, still prefers drawing faces to “legitimate” business.

At the Chalice, Shep and Addie rely on an experienced barista staff but continue to show up to oversee the thriving shop. They hang Theo’s portrait soon after his death, flanked by Tony’s portrait on one side and Ellen’s on the other, and they consider opening a second location with a portrait gallery in another nearby college town.

Lamisha, still owning her blue “morpho” shoes, recovers steadily—walking with a limp but no longer needing crutches—and plans to become either a physical therapist or an artist. Her education is funded as long as she maintains at least a B average, and she keeps close contact with Maria Mendez by texting and phone.

Basil balances occasional sidewalk performances with doctoral work in American Literature, teaching at Golden University as an adjunct while pursuing his degree. Basil and Trina marry and move into a small house in the Boughery near the Glissens.

Simone’s hand heals quickly and completely, allowing him to return to intense practice using a borrowed cello before earning a job with a reputable Massachusetts symphony. Friends raise “Simone’s Cello Fund” and, with Professor Gobelli’s help, buy Simone a vintage cello of his own, bringing Simone to tears.

Kendrick is promoted to a well-paid supervisory custodial role with full benefits on the day shift, while Grandmother Whitaker remains alive but frail and still keeps house. Minnette continues on indefinite leave from her accounting firm, working from home as an independent contractor, and she and Derrick have a son named Theo.