Chapter 87

Chapter 87 begins with Eddie Flood waking up after a full, restful nine hours of sleep, feeling the effects of a solid rest as he prepares himself mentally for the day. He understands the value of good sleep, especially on the eve of such an important moment in his life. Today is a day that requires all of his focus and determination, and despite the challenges and obstacles stacked in his path, Eddie feels ready. His experience with difficult situations gives him confidence, yet there’s still a small trace of nervousness that lingers, reminding him of the high stakes at hand. But this nervousness is not enough to overshadow his readiness and commitment to what needs to be done. He knows this day could change everything, and his focus on the task ahead overshadows any fleeting doubts he might feel.

Eddie begins his morning ritual with the methodical process of packing his bag, carefully organizing each item he plans to take with him. The act of packing feels almost meditative, as he works his way through each task with deliberate precision. When he finishes, he takes a moment to pause and pats the bag for reassurance, a small gesture that reminds him of the importance of his mission. His plan for the day is straightforward yet fraught with tension: follow Rosie carefully throughout the day, keeping his distance until the moment arrives when she is alone in her room. That is when Eddie will make his move. The careful buildup of his day—his every movement and thought—centers around this one, defining moment. He knows that once he acts, there’s no turning back.

As Eddie stands at the window, his gaze lands on the sight before him—aluminum air-conditioning ducts twisting and turning against a decaying stone wall. The urban view, while mundane and unremarkable, serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of wealth, of the fifteen thousand dollars Rob Kenna generously handed him. The money, which once seemed like a small fortune, now feels insignificant, almost as if it is slipping through his fingers, reminding him that time is running out. That realization strikes him hard, amplifying his determination to act. Eddie knows that today is the day he must seize control of his fate, and the urgency of the moment becomes clearer with each passing minute. It’s a critical turning point for him, one that he cannot afford to let pass by. The weight of the decision is undeniable, and with it, his resolve strengthens.

As the minutes pass and Eddie prepares to take action, his thoughts become sharper and more focused on the mission at hand. There is no room for distraction now—he is fully immersed in the gravity of the situation. His inner dialogue fluctuates between excitement and tension, and the anticipation of what he’s about to do fills him with a sense of purpose. Every small detail, every step taken toward this inevitable moment, reinforces his belief that this is the right course of action. Eddie is keenly aware that today is not just any ordinary day; it is the day that will alter the course of his life. It’s a day where his choices will have lasting consequences, and the uncertainty of what comes next only adds to the intensity of the moment. With each breath, Eddie becomes more certain that this pivotal moment must be seized—there’s no turning back from here. The pressure mounts, but so does his readiness, and as he moves toward his goal, the stakes have never been higher. Today, Eddie will face what he’s been preparing for, and the outcome will shape everything that follows.