From an impressive mansion on a hill overlooking the main highway out of town, a dark figure silhouetted by the brilliant sunshine looked out a massive picture window at the glorious view. The farms and pastures of the little people speckled the valley floor framed by forested hills. In the distance, Mike’s heavily loaded truck could be seen, gradually slaloming the gentle curves of the road until the truck finally swept out of sight.
The figure stood in motionless silence for a long minute. One hand held a glass of wine. Their other hand absentmindedly stroked a cat who’d climbed up on the windowsill seeking attention. Then, President Buchmann closed the shades, poured themself another glass of wine, took a Zoloft, and fed their cats.
Buchmann's schemes are shattered, with even the loss of her daughter, who she attempted to mold rather than support. But stroking the cat brings to mind James Bond villains, plotting anew.
Is it mere coincidence that his mother-in-law is in proximity to Mike's truck? Or has he taken up a regular fixed abode in the immediate vicinity?
Does she feel any biological release given that her one daughter is now in a situation allowing the genetic line to continue on toward [ mentally stable, financially successful ] grandchildren?