Chapter Fifteen: Let's Play A Game

Trick

Early isn't something I strive to be for anything. It was never ingrained into me as a teenager, not even be on time for an appointment. It's a skill I learned once I'd already gotten in trouble and realized no one gave a shit if I were taught right from wrong as a child. The ones who taught me the concept of not making others wait on me was my first parole officer, the public defender who gave me the time of day, and the bosses who were willing to give me a shot, even when they probably shouldn't have.

So for me to be here today, on a Saturday, fifteen minutes early for my meeting with Riley, is a feat in and of itself. It's cool this morning, the hot grip of summer is finally loosening, and I can see the trees around the local park are starting to turn. It's not quite cold enough to see your breath in the morning, but it was enough for me to put my jacket and a beanie on.

Luckily, I was early enough to score a table that's been set up, not too far from the festivities. I