Not important, son. I've just been having someproblems with indigestion. Went in for tests. Could be an ulcer.Or maybe just your mother'scookin'. Nothing to worry about.*Then why is Mom wearing worry in two long horizontallines across her forehead and two short vertical creases just above her nose? She's easier to read than a comic book.80I don't really want to read her, at least not all the way to the lastpage. So I'm relieved when she reaches deep down for some humor.You want to blame my cooking?Then take me out to dinner.*The garage door slams and in marches Cory. He's thirteen, a skater, and thinks he's tough.I let him maintain the fantasy.Cory may be pushing six feettall, but he's a little kid inside.*We all clam up immediately, something Cory totally misses as he launches a verbal upchuck.I can't believe it! They outlawedboards at the park. Something about liability. Damn it to hell!*Mom sucks in her breath, and Jackjumps up from his chair. Whatdid you say, young man? Youapologize to your mother rightthis minute!
