CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR PRELUDE TO THE AFTERNOON OF A FLIGHT

The Reader has the option of reading this chapter to the music of Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune, or not, as it will have no impact on the outcome of the chapter whatsoever. Once again, Malarkey helps you out: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol4bSKpvpoc). As you listen to this music, the following conversation takes place between Liliana and Malarkey. Imagine you see them from a helicopter as they ride in a shuttle heading to LAX. The dialogue before their flight might have gone something like this:

“Coach? I’m not flying coach to Milan,” Liliana says.

“But just think how snug we’ll be.”

“Snug or no snug, no way.”

“Well, Andrea’s ticket pretty much did me in. No help from mom.”

“I’ll pay for half your ticket.”

“Really? I’ve never flown business.”

“Consider it a Christmas present.”

“How can I ever repay you?’

“Don’t worry, I’ll think of something.”

And the Reader is probably thinking the same thing.

END PART I