The Day after Oblivion

by Tim Washburn

  Gage blows through the intersection and sticks his hand out the window to float on the slipstream. He spots something moving along a tree line running beside a small creek and slows down, sitting up in his seat for a better look. “I’ll be damned,” he mutters when he spots a doe and fawn moving through the brush. Like he’d told his brother, pockets of wildlife still exist and now he has proof. Now if the pair is allowed to grow and reproduce without getting shot, they might be able to establish a small herd they could selectively harvest in the future. Something to discuss with the police chief when he sees him next, Gage thinks.

  After a couple more turns Gage pulls into the driveway of his boyhood home. He climbs out, and before he can make it to the front door, his mother steps out to greet him.

  ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

  My first round of thanks is for those who love reading. Without you I couldn’t do what I do. I’ve heard from some of you—thanks for your comments—and if you would like to contact me visit my website: www.timwashburnbooks.com. I’d love to hear from you.

  Thanks to my good friend Command Sergeant Major Marcus Whitt, Retired, for helping with some of the military matters. Also, a shout-out to Tim Sneed and his lovely bride, Kaylee, for answering a couple of hacking questions.

  Now, on to those who make this book possible at Kensington: Steven Zacharias, the fearless leader; my editor, who always makes my books better, Gary Goldstein; Elisabeth (Liz) May, for keeping Gary in line; Lynn Cully, publisher extraordinaire; Lou Malcangi, a cover genius; Arthur Maisel, a page-design wizard; and the rest of gang who work their tails off—Morgan Elwell, Lauren Jernigan, Kimberly Richardson, Vida Engstrand, Alexandra Nicolajsen, and Randie Lipkin. Thank you all!

  Thank you, Jim Donovan, for all that you do.

  Thanks Karley, Nickolas, Kelsey and husband Andrew Snider, for being you. Kelsey and Andrew welcomed their first child, and her name appears in the dedication. That means I’m a grandpa (Poppy), or, in other words, I’m old.

  Thank you, Tonya (MiMi), for your love and support. I love you.