Glass (Crank 2)

I go downstairs, where

the whole crew has once

again gathered. Suddenly

everyone starts to sing,

Happy birthday to you…

Even Hunter seems to coo

along. It’s enough to almost

make me feel guilty. Almost.

Leigh gives me a huge hug.

You made it. Happy birthday.

She hands me a big package,

all done up in chartreuse.

[Heather must have chosen

the wrapping paper. It sucks.]

Go on. Open it, urges Leigh.

It’s a leather trench coat,

and not an inexpensive one.

“Way cool! Thanks a ton!”

I slide into it, cinch it up.

You look great, says Scott.

Mom comes over, puts one

hand on each shoulder,

looks me straight in the eyes.

[Dilated—will she notice?]

I w

ant you to know I’m proud of you.

Okay, that has to be a lie.

But it makes me tear up

anyway. “Thanks, Mom.”

[Even if I don’t believe you.]