House Special

Summary

• The chapter follows a man named Cameron, who is driving a rickety camper up a highway in Washington.
• Cameron is using his Aunt Jeanne's financial assistance to finance the camper and a trip to find a man named Simon Brinks.
• Cameron's first night in Washington was spent uneasily as he had to dodge a police officer while trying to sleep in his camper.
• Cameron's camper struggles with the rain and the hills, and he also encounters unexpected traffic. Despite this, he eventually arrives in Sowell Bay, which is his target.
• He attempts to find Brinks at his given office address - Brinks Development, Incorporated - but finds it locked with no cars in the parking lot. He then tries to visit the local aquarium, which is also closed.
• With time to spare, he visits a local deli/grocery store, where he makes conversation with a man known as Red Beard (real name Ethan).
• Red Beard knows almost everyone around the town, and Cameron mentions that he is actually in Washington to look for his father, Simon Brinks. Despite his expansive knowledge, Red Beard does not know Brinks personally.
• Red Beard and Cameron also discuss Cameron's former band - Moth Sausage. Red Beard initially jests he is a huge fan, but admits he was just joking.
• Cameron has lunch (on the house, thanks to Red Beard) at the deli, where he is served a "house special" pastrami melt and a black coffee.
• Upon leaving the deli, Cameron realizes his camper has a flat tire, setting him back considerably in terms of his finances and progress.
• Red Beard offers to assist Cameron with his flat tire as he departs the deli.