Clive's foot floated timorously over the pedal. He knew when he'd headed out that this wouldn't be easy, to drive back here. She had been quite clear: he was not to return. He was not to return, ever.

He had tried to explain himself, in vain—just go.

And now, the earth itself let him know just how unwelcome he was here.

The needle said he was doing 28. He nudged it higher.