he said, “Besides, it was boring at my mom's.” I turned the TV off my way out. * * * I got early the next morning so that I could have a little quality time with my new Mustang. It drove like a charm, smooth and easy to handle. I was in heaven. I was enjoying it so much I lost track of time and was almost late for work. I reluctantly parked the car and forced myself to climb out. I gave the hood an affectionate pat before turning to go inside. “Have you named her yet?” someone suddenly asked me, causing me to jump. “Novak!” I gasped. “I didn't see you there.” He took a sip from the steaming oversized coffee mug in his hand. “Didn't mean to startle you. Have you named her yet?” “Her who? The car?” “That's who I was referring to, yes.” “It's a car, Novak, not a puppy.” “Every car needs a name. I've had Bessie for longer than you've been on this earth. She's like family. She's seen me through some tight spots.” “You really need to get a woman.” “Bessie gets better mileage.” “Has one ever told you you're a strange man, Novak?” “All the time, kid, all the time.” We walked into the office where Novak had a stack of paperwork waiting for me that was tall enough to block light behind me desk.
