Neil Northern California — 1988- Love without Compromise

Neil is empty and alone. He can taste Pamela’s cold, spearmint breath; he can hear her voice in every wind. He does not want to think of her, but it is too late. He can no more forget her than remember an unknown stranger.

He packs a few clothes, his best mixing bowls and leaves the City, Huck on his shoulder. He will miss the fog and the light on the bay. He’ll miss Jo-Jo, Thanatos and even the purpose and mystery that Aidan had provided. But he hungers for the solace of the Redwoods’ towering shadows. He needs to hear waves break endlessly on wild rocky shores.

* * * *

If someday you chance upon a town where everyone is content, a town where children are as sweet as sugar, where neighbor loves neighbor and old men dream of flying, go visit the bakery. And if the cook has a pet crow, feed him well.