Chapter 20 Summary

Christmas comes and goes without much ado. Nyle and Gran have never made it a big celebration before, and they certainly are not about to this year, what with all that has taken place. In addition to the accident, the Trent family does not celebrate Christmas.

The day after Christmas, accompanied by the puppy and Caleb, Nyle makes rounds checking on the sheep. It is bitter cold, so Nyle decides to take the shortcut through the Powers' property. The puppy hears Ripley and begins barking, giving away their presence. Ripley asks Nyle what she is doing on his property, and she tells him she is on her way to the far pasture. Nyle quickly moves herself and the two dogs off the Powers' property. As Nyle is feeding the sheep, the puppy begins barking with an unusual tone. The puppy detects Ripley standing...