The sun disappeared into the woods and shadows started slinking out from between the trees. Twilight brought a chill wind whipping across fallen leaves and in the distance the huddling hills were hidden in autumn haze. That’s when David began moving through the farmhouse, locking the doors and windows. It was a regular ritual now, but tonight Vera rebelled. “For heaven’s sake, must you close things up so early? We’ll suffocate in here without fresh air.” David didn’t answer. Instead he opened the kitchen cabinet, pulled out the vodka bottle, and poured himself a shot. “Please, David,” she said, “couldn’t you wait until after dinner? I’ll have it on the table just as soon as Billy shows up.” David was staring out the window, squinting at the woods across the road, but now he turned and his eyes widened. “I thought he was in his room,”
