Crazy for the Storm

CHAPTER 28

MY DAD HUSTLED ME to the Snow Summit lodge and we put all our ski stuff in a locker. Then we went to the bar to get Sandra.

When do I get the trophy? I said.

The ceremony’s tomorrow, President’s Day, he said.

But if I just get it now then we won’t have to come back, I said.

That’s not how they’re doing it, he said. Plus you can train with the team tomorrow.

We entered the bar and Sandra was pretty buzzed. She wanted to stay the night.

Little Norman’s got a hockey game, said my dad.

Well fuck, Norm, she said. Everybody stop. Just stop what you’re doing, she announced to the bar. This little blond boy has a hockey game so the world has to stop.

We’re leaving so come on, said my dad.

He turned and I followed him out the door. It was warm again and the clouds were gone. Looking over a far ridge, Dad thanked the storm for sending the cool air.

I guess we just caught the edge of it, he added.

Trailing behind us, Sandra cursed and bitched all the way to the Porsche.

There’s no fucking relaxing, she said. Go here. Go there. Go go go GO!

My dad reversed out of the parking spot, put the car in first gear and gripped the steering wheel with both hands.

I’m glad we’re taking a fucking plane tomorrow, she said.

Me too, I said.

We’ll be able to see your championship run from the air, he said.

Cool.

Better take a catnap, he said. Big game tonight.

Okay, I said.

I curled up against the back window.