Chapter 3

Chapter 3 begins with the protagonist and Norman arriving at a general store in Bluebird Hole, a small town with an atmosphere of unease and suspicion. The store, operated by a heavyset woman, offers basic provisions, including potatoes and biscuits. Norman, appearing as if he belongs, purchases a potato while the protagonist watches, feeling the weight of their precarious situation. Before Norman takes a bite, the protagonist warns against eating it raw, explaining the risk of sickness and suggesting they cook it over a fire instead. Their conversation is cautious, their words carefully chosen to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. The act of preparing the food together fosters a brief moment of connection between them, yet the underlying fear of being discovered lingers. Their hushed voices are a stark reminder of the ever-present danger that looms over them.

As they settle near the warmth of the small fire, the protagonist reflects on the uncertainty ahead. The silence between them is filled with unspoken thoughts about their fragile existence. Their disguises and assumed roles offer a thin layer of protection, but the risk of exposure is ever-present. Norman, attempting to make conversation, asks about the protagonist’s background, prompting an impromptu decision to adopt a different identity. Choosing the name “February,” the protagonist declares that he was born in June, a subtle nod to the absurdity of the situation they find themselves in. The irony of choosing a month so distant from reality reflects the surreal nature of their journey. The weight of maintaining a fabricated identity is daunting, but it is a necessary step to avoid suspicion.

With their bellies filled and their next move uncertain, Norman and the protagonist discuss the possibility of seeking work at a sawmill. The protagonist, wary of trusting strangers, reminds Norman that blending in requires more than just a convincing act; it requires silence, careful observation, and knowing when to retreat. As they make their way toward the mill, the path ahead seems darker, as if foreshadowing the hardships to come. Arriving at the sawmill, they are met by Henderson, a gruff and unwelcoming man whose gaze lingers on the protagonist with a mix of scrutiny and amusement. Norman, maintaining his role, introduces the protagonist as “February,” a name that now carries the weight of survival. Henderson sizes him up, questioning his abilities and whether he has the strength for the work required.

The conversation shifts to business, and the harsh reality of their situation becomes painfully clear. Henderson, a man well-versed in the commerce of human labor, begins negotiating the protagonist’s worth. The transaction is cold, detached, and devoid of humanity. Norman, feigning indifference, haggles for a fair price while the protagonist remains silent, absorbing the cruelty of a world that reduces human beings to property. Henderson laughs at Norman’s attempts to increase the value of his “purchase,” mocking the notion of intelligence as a desirable trait in a worker. The negotiation is drawn out, with Henderson finally agreeing to pay three hundred and fifty dollars for the protagonist.

As the deal is finalized, Luke, a wiry man with an expressionless face, is tasked with escorting the protagonist to the workers’ quarters. The protagonist follows, sensing the change in Norman’s demeanor. For the first time, Norman’s confidence wavers, his eyes revealing the weight of what has just transpired. The protagonist understands that from this moment forward, his fate is no longer in his hands. The journey has taken a dark turn, one that will test his endurance, resilience, and ability to adapt. As he steps into the dimly lit shed where he will spend the night, he steels himself for what lies ahead, knowing that survival depends not only on strength but on the ability to navigate an unforgiving world.