Fallout (Crank 3)

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.”