One Golden Summer

These hours stuck in a car are a rite for cottagers—the pilgrimage from city to lake, a ritual passed from one generation to another, along with a love of fresh air and big skies, and a tolerance for jumping into chilly water. The remains of a four-year relationship come down to a copy of The Minimalist Entrepreneur, wireless headphones, and a stray dress sock. Just a fling with the boy across the bay until the end of summer. Charlie knew all along he was having heart surgery.