30. July 27, 2021
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.