The Season of Styx Malone

The EMTs put Styx on a yellow board and give him a mask to help him breathe. Caleb takes a twisted piece of the moped, and Bobby Gene gathers up Styx’s backpack. After the ambulance rushes away, the boys race home. Mom has Susie in the car; as soon as she sees the boys, she is angry, but then she notices the blood on Caleb’s shirt. She is frantic with worry, but Bobby Gene tells her Styx got hurt. She helps Caleb wash up; then the four of them head to the hospital. Caleb is certain Styx is dead; Bobby Gene tries to console him in the backseat. Caleb sees the city buildings in the distance, but instead of excitement at finally going to Indianapolis, he is filled with dread.

Talking to the nurse, Mom reveals that Dad was the one who called DCS to report Styx’s behavior. Caleb is stunned to hear it. They wait for most of the day without getting to see Styx. Finally, Mom cannot content Susie any longer and says they must go home. The boys are upset and resistant. She promises they will come back and tells the boys to meet her at the door in five minutes.