Summary

A memo is sent to Lester ordering him to “take immediate corrective action” (p. 288) on several deficiencies.

In the section “Overpressure,” Lester felt even his house had it out for him as it creaked and groaned its complaints about him leaving his father alone. Back in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve, Lizzy wants him to go with her to watch the fireworks. He knows she’s disappointed when he said he didn’t feel like going. The sound of the fireworks already going off remind him of gunfire. Lizzy is excited by the fireworks while Lester winces at the noise and smell. Lizzy begs Lester to take her to see the fireworks and he finally gives in.

They find Lizzy’s friends just before the fireworks start. There is a family with three...