30. July 27, 2021

Contains spoilers

Summary

  • Avram Welch, in conversation with Holly, mentions his knee replacement surgery on August 31st, 2015, which coincides with the disappearance of Cary after Avram last saw him at a bowling alley.
  • Welch reminisces about his late wife, Mary, who passed away due to lung cancer despite never smoking, a fact which Holly finds somewhat comforting due to her own smoking habit.
  • Avram and others in their bowling group enjoyed marijuana, except for Rodney, known as Roddy or "Small Ball," who never partook despite not objecting to others' use.
  • Members of the group claimed that marijuana improved their bowling performance, especially one called "Hughie the Clip."
  • By the end of her visit, Holly has only confirmed that Welch, like the others in his circle, is friendly and likable, making him a less likely suspect as the Red Bank Predator.
  • Barbara receives a call from her brother Jerome, who shares that he's spending the weekend in Montauk with his agent.
  • Despite her initial suspicions, Barbara is reassured that Jerome's trip is professional rather than personal.
  • Barbara opens up about her poetic aspirations and the surprise over being in the running for the Penley Prize, to which Jerome responds with overwhelming excitement and support.
  • Jerome updates Barbara on the potential serial killer case that Holly might have accidentally uncovered, connected to Red Bank Avenue and Deerfield Park.
  • Jerome has a revelation about the case and shares this with Barbara, who is eager now to pay full attention.
  • Barbara is tasked with sending Jerome a folder of photos from their father's study, which might be used for promotion if Jerome goes on a book tour.
  • The chapter concludes with a warm exchange of love and happiness between Barbara and her brother, followed by Barbara feeling an intense surge of joy and contentment.
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