"Thomas walked towards the stationary figure. As in a dream, the sound of the sea receded, the sharp edges of reality blurred, and the world became soft and still. Yet Thomas was acutely aware of the crush of firm, cool sand under foot and the chill of each wave that washed about his feet and ankles. As he drew closer, the young man turned. It was Adam...and yet it was not. Thomas stopped, suddenly uncertain. Another wave rushed in to spread itself upon the shore and play about his feet with cold, liquid fingers. The cry of a gull traveled the wind. Gradually Thomas understood that he was...