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Show 7-7 "Annie, go get your things. I've got to take you to Ruth's. Papa's had another attack." John almost pushed me toward the stairs. "Where's Mother? Why can't I stay here?" "She's gone over to our house. You know how Mama gets. Hurry!" My grandmother was not good in a crisis. She was especially fearful of Grandfather's health, constantly warning him about overdoing. She fluttered, like a moth, Father always said. Grandfather had had one bad heart attack a year ago soon after we heard about Uncle Paul. I ran upstairs and threw my nightgown into my bookbag. I picked up my books on my bedside table and ran down the stairs. Our car was in the driveway across the street. As we climbed in, Mother ran down the steps of the grandparents' house and over to the car. She leaned in the open window and kissed me hurriedly. "Be good now, Annie. Mind your manners." "How's Grandfather?" "Your father is looking after him. I think he'll be all right." She straightened and looked back at the house. I couldn't see her face. It was very dark now. "Don't worry. We'll get him over to County and they'll take care of him. Hurry, John, and come right back. We may need you." She reached in and patted my arm. "Goodbye, Annie. Be good." She ran back in the house. We drove in silence to Ruth's house. John drove too fast and smoked two cigarettes on the way. The hot smell made the night air even thicker. |