Summary

The second section begins as Kate's husband, Steve, woke her early to have a talk with their son, Jake, who had come home from university. Jake announced that he dropped out of school to consider new options to pursue. He was thinking of traveling to Thailand. The family fought over the decision, and Kate stormed off to work. When she entered the office, a strange quiet in the newsroom hit her. The Crime Man gave her the news that several people would be let go from the staff due to budget cuts. He said that Kate should be safe because she was a favored writer, but that he was too old and highly paid to be kept. By the end of the day, he received notice and was drummed out the office in traditional style.

Two days later, the Crime Man had his...