I handle her falling in love
with someone else. My cell rings.
The ladies’ flight has arrived.
I put the Jeep into gear, and as
I pull forward into the loading
zone, it hits me suddenly that
Nikki must have asked herself
the very same questions about me.
SUBDUED
That’s the collective feeling
as I give Leigh and Kristina
tentative hugs, load their luggage
into the Jeep. We all pretty much
feel like shit. They, because
they’re very close to losing
their father. Me, because I’m
really afraid I’ve lost my Nikki.
Kristina commandeers shotgun.
Leigh doesn’t try to argue. We
drive along in silence for a while.
Finally I say, “Mom got you a hotel
room, Kristina. Do you want to
drop off your stuff before we go
on out to the house?” I do not
expect her answer. I’m not staying
at any hotel. I want to see my boys.
Mom can kiss my freaking ass.
Okay. This is going to be one
entertaining Christmas. “You might
want to rethink your attitude.”