Contents
Chapter 24
Overview
Elsie steps into the laneway where Persephone proudly demonstrates her new hula-hoop skill, briefly uniting the neighbors in laughter. A group of young protesters arrive, branding Elsie “Murder Mabel.” As a dreadlocked man advances, there is a loud bang and blood. Elsie collapses, terrified for Persephone’s safety.
Summary
Late afternoon, Elsie, with Libby and Adeem visiting, answers persistent knocking from Persephone. Despite previous tension, Elsie follows Persephone into the laneway for a “surprise.” Persephone demonstrates she can hula-hoop, wobbling but succeeding, which delights Elsie and draws smiles and applause from neighbors Peter, Roxanne, and Joan, as well as Libby and Adeem.
The cheerful mood shifts when a small group of young activists appears at the lane’s mouth. Recognizing Elsie, they point and display a sign reading “MURDER MABEL,” openly accusing her. Their certainty and hostility frighten Elsie.
A dreadlocked man strides toward Elsie. Peter steps in verbally, but the man closes the distance and lifts his arm. Persephone shouts “Stop!”
A loud bang, like a backfire, erupts. Elsie experiences ringing ears and is suddenly covered in blood. She falls, disoriented and injured, and her final conscious thought is panic over Persephone’s safety and whereabouts.
Who Appears
- Elsie (also called Elsa)Elderly narrator; enjoys Persephone’s hula-hoop moment; confronted by protesters; injured after a loud bang and collapses.
- PersephoneChild neighbor; proudly shows hula-hoop skill; shouts “Stop!” as a protester advances; central to Elsie’s concern.
- Dreadlocked manYoung protester who identifies Elsie as “Murder Mabel” and advances before a loud bang occurs.
- RoxanneNeighbor; encourages Persephone; smiles during the hula-hoop display before the confrontation.
- PeterNeighbor; applauds Persephone; attempts to intervene verbally when the protester approaches Elsie.
- LibbyVisitor; supportive; witnesses the scene from the doorway as protesters arrive.
- AdeemVisitor; notices the protesters; observes the confrontation unfolding in the laneway.
- High-ponytailed woman with signProtester holding “MURDER MABEL” sign; openly accuses Elsie along with the group.
- JoanNeighbor; briefly acknowledges Persephone’s performance, then witnesses the disruption.