“Dad, take a left at the corner and head up the hill. Turn right at the second light. That will take you to the Brooklyn Bridge entrance,” said Celeste. “Thanks again for coming.”
The car pulled away.
“At least that’s over. Mom will probably spend the next year talking about her adventure in Brooklyn.”
“For sure.”
I had a vision of the dead guy but put it out of my mind to enjoy the moment. We stood on the loading dock holding hands long after they’d left, listening to the sounds of the neighborhood, the buzz of traffic on the bridges, and the subway train rumbling in the distance.
After doing the dishes, we cuddled in bed together to watch the evening news.
“I’ve got to tell you. Joe and I had a shock when we drove to the store.”
Celeste, who was half asleep, turned to me. “What? You didn’t say anything.”
A TV newscaster appeared standing under the Manhattan Bridge. “The body of a middle-aged man was discovered earlier today. The police are investigating how he died and why he was left here. His identity won’t be announced until his family has been notified.”
“Ben, that’s down the street from us. She sat up quickly. “What happened?”
“I don’t know. We saw him on the way to the store, just lying there. I heard sirens, and I convinced your dad to drive away before the police arrived. We agreed not to mention it. He said it would wreck the atmosphere.
“Too true.” Celeste, shivering a little.
“I wonder if Joe will tell your mom.”
“Let’s hope not.”
Suzanne C Martinez 