CHAPTER 20

 

“That was a ‘Hell’ of story,” Dan said and started laughing a little too much at his joke.

“Nick, the fire’s getting low, “Grandpa said, rubbing his arms. “I’m getting cold. Put on another log. Just don’t breathe on it or the whole place’ll go up.”

Nick staggered to the fireplace. He reached down and picked up a couple of logs from the bin, nearly falling over.

“God, are you trashed,” Jack observed, shaking his head.

“Fuck off. I’m not that drunk,” Nick said belligerently. He bent down to grab some discarded wrapping paper and tossed it into the fire. He stumbled back to the couch.

“You asshole, Nick. Now it’s getting smoky in here from the paper.” Jack waved his hands in the air.

“It’s not that bad. Quit being a drama queen. You’re worse than Nancy. No wonder you can’t get a boyfriend.” He took long pull from the bottle.

Jack stood and threw the book at Nick. It struck the bottle, ripping it from his mouth and shattering on the floor. Port and glass flew everywhere, spattering the floor and furniture with deep crimson drops.

Nick put his hand to his mouth. His fingers came away bloody. “What the fuck?”

“You’re a fucking spoiled brat!” Jack shouted. “Nancy might be whore, but at least she’s going to do something with her life. You’re the biggest loser in this whole family!”

“At least I’m not a fag hiding in the closet!”

“God damn it, Jack! Do you know how much that stuff cost?” slurred Dan.

Jack stared at his dad. “You’re unbelievable.” He stormed out of the room.

“Guess I’ll read, since I’ve got the book,” Nick said and retrieved it from the floor. “Huh. It’s not even wet.”

“Are you sure you can see the words?” Grandpa said.

“Yes, I can see the words,” he said, mockingly. “The Perfect Present.”