CHAPTER 6

 

“This is awesome!” Nick slurred.

“No, it’s not. That story was sick. Would someone really do that to someone else?” Nancy scolded. “Are you drunk? At one in the afternoon?”

“Hey!” Nick said, sitting up then slumping back. “I’m just tired, ‘s all.”

Judy shook her head. “I knew I shouldn’t have given you that last drink.”

“He’ll learn,” Dan told her. “Experience is the best teacher.”

“I know, but I don’t want him to get sick on Christmas. He’ll ruin dinner.”

“He won’t get sick. Will you, Nick?” Dan looked meaningfully at Nick and held out the book. “You read the next one.”

“I’ll be fine,” Nick said, opening the book. He hiccupped.

“Oh Jesus. Give me the book.” Jack snatched the book away.

“Hey—hic—I can do—hic— it,” Nick fell back on the sofa.

“You’re such a loser,” Jack hissed.

“I’ll—hic—read the next one—hic—”

“Hold your breath,” Judy said.

“Yeah, like for an hour,” Nancy stage-whispered to Grandpa, who guffawed.

Nick looked at them. “You’re not nice—hic—either of you.”

Dan had had enough. His hand tightened on his mug. “Jack, just read the goddam story.”

“Okay, Dad. Calm down.” He looked at his mother, who was studying her hands, and then turned back to the book. “The Little Helper.” He glared at his younger brother. “Guess it’s not about you, Nicky boy.”

“Shut up—hic—and read.”