Fog billowed over Lake Pontchartrain, which made it difficult for Jason Schriever to see as he steered his boat towards the dock. He took a morning boat ride over to a small island before the day became too unbearable. Jason slows the motor as he approaches the shore. The small island served as a wildlife refuge for indigenous animals and plants. He climbed out over the side of his boat, and ventured over to a live oak tree with Spanish moss dripping down from its limbs. This particular tree was also home to several bird nests. Jason looked up and noticed a moving tree branch. A heron left the tree in search of food. The sunlight was trying to break through the low-lying clouds. Although he didn't want to leave the island yet, Jason took the opportunity to venture back to his boat and head back to the mainland before the day got too muggy. He started up the motor and startled the ducks, who had ventured over to the boat for a visit. Jason chuckled as the ducks dispersed away from the boat. His route back to the mainland was easier to navigate because the sunlight finally broke through and dissipated the fog. As he gets closer to the mainland, Jason noticed his girlfriend, Belle Patterson, waiting for his return. He pulled the boat along the side of the dock. Belle meandered over to Jason to inquire about his morning venture. Jason started telling her about his latest discoveries as he tethered his boat to the dock. Belle reached out with open arms and embraced Jason.

The happy couple leaves the dock and wander up to their house. Their 2-story house overlooks the lake. What one would think is the front of the house is actually the back of the house because of the elaborate columns. The front of the house has a two-story porch so one could see who is approaching up the driveway. Back in the day, this house belonged to a plantation owner. Therefore, a plot of land was originally attached to the house but through the years, the land portion was sold to a developer. The developer never built anything on it for which Jason was glad. Jason had acquired this house through inheritance so he was especially attached to it. The house was sound, only needing minor cosmetic work. He let Belle handle some of the decorating inside the house. Jason had fond memories about the house, so he didn't want to alter its character too much.

Jason glances at the grandfather clock located in the main hall. He wanders over to the lower porch entrance and pokes his head out of the doorway. He finds Belle curled up on the porch swing, reading a book. Jason tells her that he needs to take a trip into town for some supplies, and asks if she would like to tag along. Without hesitating, Belle swings her legs off of the swing and puts her book down. She grabs her purse off of the sideboard, and follows Jason out to the car. They both pile into the car and head towards town.