Summary

In Chapter 8, “Nape,” Charles had developed a habit of robbing general stores. It had “started as a joke,” but became a way to save money so he and Opal could create a life together (61). One day, he woke up and donned his mask and robbed the North Oakland Piggly Wiggly. He shot the owner, took the money, and ran. While running, he realized he had been shot. Back at home, he lay down, unable to get help. He thought of Opal, realizing he did not deserve her (65).

In Chapter 9, “No Better Plan,” Pratt knew something was wrong as soon as he arrived at Charles’s house. Inside, he discovered that Charles had bled out. Shortly after leaving, Pratt died, too.

In Chapter 10, “Everything Blue,” two mornings before he robbed the Piggly Wiggly, Charles had the feeling “he would die soon” (69). He wanted to...