It was the first indication that our sons’ secret was larger than a risky place to hang out.

He rubbed his hands together as if he could still feel the chill of underground water.

“I’ll explain,” he promised.

“Everything.

Just let them get Gavin out first.”

Across the road, a firefighter called out that the west grate was clear.

A rope bag disappeared into darkness.

The captain clicked on his radio and answered in a level voice.