Chapter 77

“We’re brothers.”

Brian had to ask. “Were you in Vietnam?” They nodded. “Were you afraid?”

The other one, tall, slender, with facial scars and a small lisp, said, “Everyone is, and it’s no sin to admit it. We’re afraid and the other side is, too. It’s winding down. I hope you don’t have to go. It’s hell.”

They all shook hands and went their separate ways. Michelle held Dad’s arm tight. “I’m proud of you.” She gazed toward Jim and Brian. “You, too.”

A sudden calm washed through Brian. “If I get drafted, then I’ll make the best of it.”

* * * *

Brian’s uplifted mood didn’t last long, so two weeks before Christmas, on a Saturday morning, the boys drove again to San Francisco to experience more of the magnificent city. Jim said, “This will help you feel better. Only think of positive things.”

Brian tried to smile as he drove. “I never thought Dad would let us go. Bless Michelle for talking him into it.” A devious thought came to him. “Take your dick out and jack off.”