Galbraith’s decided to convince this kid he’s crazy. Not the kid, Galbraith. They’re always at bus stops together, but Galbraith’s bus comes later, so the kid never sees him leave.

The contrast in their appearances gave him the idea: the kid’s twenty-odd, clean, shirt and slacks, still busing it but with Upward all over; Galbraith works construction, with his beard matted and his belly stretching his shirt.

A spot always to the left of his head, muttering, counting fingers. Yesterday as he walked by, Galbraith let the kid hear him say “Cease!” The kid jumped, and Galbraith was filled with glee.