Chapter 38. THEN: HOMEWARD BOUND

In this chapter, Notch finds himself covered in blood (not his own) and facing a 20-hour drive alone with his thoughts. He decides to get as far away as possible, avoiding states where he might be on the radar. As he drives, he reflects on the past 72 hours, during which he killed two men, escaped arrest, and abandoned a woman he loved, likely ruining her life. Overwhelmed by guilt and despair, he contemplates suicide but ultimately cannot go through with it. Instead, he decides to return to Tulsa to seek vengeance on six men who had harmed Gabriella 17 years ago. The chapter ends with Notch determined to kill these men, showing no mercy or kindness.

In this chapter, Notch arrives in Houston around 2:00 am, determined to find information about Clint Rodham. His quest leads him to make several mistakes, including revealing his connection to Rodham. He eventually meets a man named Frenchy at a sex club, who arranges a meeting with Rodham. Rodham, depicted as a lowlife, is questioned about Cherry Wood. Notch lies and says he saw her stripping at a club in Nogales, Mexico. Rodham makes several vulgar references to Cherry, A.K.A. Gabriella and Notch driven by rage, kills Rodham with a clock and shoots Frenchy, leaving him to die slowly. The chapter ends with Notch reflecting on his actions and the loss of professionalism in his quest for vengeance.

In this chapter, Notch finds himself alone in Gabriella's house for the first time. He takes the opportunity to vacuum and then snoop around, discovering various items that give him insight into Gabriella's life. He finds a small record collection, a variety of books, some recreational drugs, and alcohol. He also goes through her closet, imagining her in different outfits, which leads to a moment of self-awareness about his own nudity.

A knock at the door interrupts his thoughts, and a delivery boy named Doug returns his cleaned and pressed clothes. Notch generously tips Doug and then decides to kill time by reading "Life on the Mississippi" by Mark Twain. He discovers that the book is a first edition, signed by Samuel Clemens, which deepens his admiration for Gabriella.

As he prepares to propose to Gabriella, he realizes he doesn't have a ring and seeks advice from Missus Kelly, a neighbor. Missus Kelly, who insists on being called Harriet, offers him some heartfelt advice and directs him to a local jewelry store. However, his plans are interrupted by a visit from Police Commissioner Fortier, who reveals that he knows about Notch’s past and the murder he committed in 1963.

The Commissioner gives Notch three options: face a deadly confrontation, be arrested and extradited, or leave the state and never return. The protagonist, realizing the gravity of the situation, decides to leave, despite his deep feelings for Gabriella. He makes the bed, changes clothes, and leaves without a note, feeling the weight of his past actions and the inevitability of his fate.

The chapter ends with Notch contemplating his future as he crosses the Mississippi River, symbolizing his transition from one life to another.

In this chapter, Notch wakes up to the sound of Gabriella in the kitchen. They share a tender morning, discussing their love for New Orleans and the possibility of starting a new life in Youngstown. Gabriella reveals she has money saved up from her work, hinting at a future together. Their playful banter leads to a moment of intimacy, where Notch feels a deep sense of completeness and redemption.

Gabriella prepares to leave for work, promising to return by 6 PM for a ferry ride. She gives Notch a book of Petrarch's works with a heartfelt inscription. As she leaves, they exchange loving words, and the protagonist is left contemplating their future. However, there's a foreshadowing of tragedy as he reflects that this was the last time he would make love for the rest of his life.

In this chapter, Notch and Gabriella continue their adventure in New Orleans. They visit the famous Carousel Bar at the Monteleone Hotel, where they sit on whimsical animal chairs and enjoy Vieux Carres, a classic New Orleans cocktail. Gabriella leaves the protagonist with a room key and a tantalizing promise, leading to a passionate encounter in the luxurious FJ Monteleone Suite. The chapter captures Notch’s deep connection with Gabriella and the vibrant, intoxicating atmosphere of the French Quarter.

Their day continues with a stroll through the French Quarter, where they join a lively second line parade, dancing and singing along with the crowd. Notch reflects on his happiness and the surreal nature of his experiences with Gabriella. They end the day with a romantic dinner at Galatoire's, where they are treated with great respect and admiration by the staff and other patrons. The chapter concludes with Notch contemplating his love for Gabriella and the transformative impact she has had on his life.

In this chapter, Notch and Gabriella visit a high-end men's clothing store to buy a linen suit, dress shirt, and shoes. Gabriella takes charge, referring to Notch as her husband, which surprises him but also makes him feel admired by the store's salesmen. The salesmen treat Gabriella with great respect and cater to her every request, even when she insists on buying expensive Italian loafers for Notch.

Notch is measured for his suit, and although he feels it fits perfectly, Gabriella is not satisfied and insists on further adjustments. The salesmen are clearly captivated by Gabriella's beauty and charm, and they go out of their way to accommodate her. Eventually, Gabriella manages to persuade the store's tailor to have the suit ready by the evening for their anniversary dinner, despite the tailor's initial refusal.

Throughout the chapter, there is a playful and flirtatious dynamic between Notch and Gabriella, with both of them engaging in a game of one-upmanship. The chapter ends with Notch feeling a mix of admiration and discomfort as he contemplates the lengths Gabriella goes to ensure he looks his best.

In this chapter, the Notch is awoken by Gabriella, who urges him to get ready for a day out in New Orleans. They plan to catch the 9:30 ferry and have breakfast at Café Du Monde. The protagonist is struck by Gabriella's beauty and her choice of a silky sundress. As they leave her house, they encounter Miss Kelly, Gabriella's neighbor, who makes some playful comments about their relationship.

During their ferry ride across the Mississippi, Notch is captivated by the magical scenery and Gabriella's radiant appearance. They enjoy beignets at Jackson Square, where Gabriella teases Notch about his powdered sugar-covered shirt. She also hints at buying him a new suit for an evening out at a fine restaurant.

Their day continues with a visit to Rubenstein's, a high-end men's shop, where Gabriella insists on buying Notch a linen suit. The chapter captures Notch’s admiration for Gabriella and the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, blending moments of humor, romance, and reflection.

In this chapter, Notch finds himself in an intimate and reflective moment with Gabi, who presents him with a gift: a book of poetry by Francesco Petrarca, also known as Petrarch. The Gabi reads a sonnet in Italian, which deeply moves him, even though he doesn't understand the language. The sonnet speaks of love, desire, and inner conflict, resonating with Notch’s own feelings. He reads the English translation aloud, feeling a profound connection to the words and the emotions they convey. The chapter ends with the Notch and Gabi sharing a tender moment, as he contemplates the impact of the ancient poet's words on his soul.