Chapter 47

Those customers still in line moaned. From the kitchen, the manager called out, “It’s all right, people! Calm down! We have a gas grill back here so as soon as I find a light, we’re good to go.”

Vic had a large flashlight on the bus, but before he could offer it, he saw a telltale shaft of light behind the counter and returned to his meal. Another few bites and he’d finish his sandwich, then it was out in the ice again. He’d radio in to the garage and see if they had decided to cancel the routes yet. If not, he’d have to be careful crossing the intersections—if the power were out, that meant the traffic lights wouldn’t work, either. Who knew what sort of idiot drivers would be out in this mess?

From behind the register, the deli’s manager called out, “Hey, Vic.”

Vic glanced up, his usual scowl in place.