How to Stop Time

Omai and Tom look over menus. Omai, as Sol Davis, has been living there for 17 years. A waitress comes and takes their order. She recognizes Omai as the surfer from YouTube. He smiles politely as she leaves. Tom talks about teaching. He mentions 1891, Hendrich, and the Albatross Society. He explains about the eight-year rule. Tom emphasizes how unsafe they are even today, citing the institute in Berlin. Omai asks about the consequences for not joining. When Tom doesn’t answer, he compares the society to the mafia. He’s been in Australia for 30 years and doesn’t want to leave. Tom tries to convince Omai that the society will keep him safe. Omai stands up, places some cash on the table, and walks out.

Tom remembers Omai’s belief that people live on in the mind and can provide guidance “if you stop mourning them, and start listening to them, they still have the power to change your life” (291). Tom finds Omai’s house on the edge of town. An old woman answers the door. Confused, Tom asks about Sol Davis. She nods and points toward the beach where Omai is surfing.

Tom watches Omai surf. Hendrich calls, reminding Tom that he is only Plan A.