Lucy by the Sea

Lucy and William are still in Maine when she has a panic attack late in July. George Floyd is killed, and, as they watch the protests that follow, she worries that the people in them will get sick. She remembers when Abner Louima was beaten and raped while in police custody, and the deep anger that she felt and feels again with Floyd’s murder. Becka tells her that she, Chrissy, and Michael have been protesting in New Haven. Lucy doesn’t tell William; she is worried and knows he will be too, but she is proud of them.

One day, when Lucy goes to the grocery store, people are waiting in a long line to get into the store. An elderly man takes his place at the end of the line, and no one, including Lucy, gives him their place. When one woman does, and then takes her place at the end of the line, Lucy is ashamed. She also reflects that she has learned something about herself and people in general.

In early June, William makes a trip to see Estelle and Bridget. Lucy is alone for the first extended time since they arrived in March. She thinks she will enjoy it, but the time passes slowly, and she realizes what people who live alone are experiencing during this time.