Summary

In the section titled “Picnic,” in the novel’s epilogue, Holly and Jerome enjoy a picnic on Labor Day. Jerome will soon be going back to college. Hodges is not there because Pete had some news he wanted to share with Hodges in person. Meanwhile, Holly is going to Cincinnati to see her mother. Jerome is worried but Holly assures him she will be okay.

Jerome has trouble meeting Holly’s eyes when she asks if Hodges is all right. She’s noticed how much weight he is losing and is also worried because he is visiting Brady. She says she does not want Hodges obsessing over Brady. Jerome has a hunch that Hodges thinks Brady is not completely brain damaged but does not tell Holly. Before they part, Jerome gives Holly a shirt he bought for her. It is red with black lettering...