Callie’s friend Sarah was with the girls, Callie herself was sedated and sleeping at CVPH, so Mike stepped outside the hospital to have a cigarette and call his father. The sun was barely visible, smothered behind thick grey clouds. He hadn’t had a cigarette in years. Callie didn’t even know he used to smoke. No one did. Jack Simpkins answered. “Dad,” said Mike, his voice cracking. “Braxton is dead.” “What?” “He went outside in the middle of the night. They found him in the road.” Jack Simpkins was silent. “Callie is in the hospital. I’m with her. She’s a total wreck — they had to sedate her. The girls are okay; they’re with a friend. The State Police are investigating.” After a long moment, Jack finally spoke. “Where were you?” “Where was I?
