Chapter 14
Chapter 14 — The Hardware Store
Alex begins working with Gene Holloway at Holloway's Hardware store, learning carpentry and basic trade skills. Gene turns out to be Ruth's ex-husband, a fact Alex discovers during their first day together. Gene offers Alex a part-time job at the store, which would require him to spend significant time away from the commune in town. Alex returns to the commune and discusses the opportunity with JJ, who supports the idea. He also talks with Ruth, who reveals her history with Gene and gives her blessing. The chapter marks a shift in Alex's summer from purely physical entanglements toward building a future and practical skills. Chloe and Maya react to the news with mixed feelings about Alex spending less time at the commune.
Alex woke to the sound of a truck engine.
Not the commune's old Ford. Something heavier. Diesel. He pulled on jeans and a t-shirt and stepped outside. A flatbed pickup sat in the gravel lot, loaded with lumber. A man stood beside it, arms crossed, watching the morning fog burn off the pond.
He was big. Not tall-big. Wide-big. Shoulders like a barn frame. Hands that looked like they'd been carved from oak and sanded rough. He wore a flannel shirt rolled to the elbows and work boots caked with sawdust.
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