The town fathers of Chatham had conveniently placed benches so the ocean view could be observed in comfort. I sat myself down on one and wrapped a sock around my injured foot, trying to stem the flow of blood. Proven House wasn’t more than a ten-minute walk from that point. I hauled myself up to my feet and hobbled my way back, putting most of my weight on my heel.
Fortunately, the natives had enough smarts that they knew to avoid the beach in March. I didn’t need any pitying glances.
No one was at the front desk when I entered the bed-and-breakfast, and I was able to get to the second floor without being questioned about my stupidity. I took the key from my pocket, then paused at my door, squatting down to check the string of chewing gum I had left there. It was awkward, balancing on th
