25

One deep breath and Nick opened his eyes. 3:58. He noticed on his digital alarm clock. He rolled to the other side: where Lucille lay still asleep. Bringing his lips to her ear, he blew softly into it. She moaned. "Cilley." He kissed it gently, causing her to stir. "Cilley." He whispered. "Luce. Lucille."

"Yeah?"

"It's time. Come on."

"Are you ready yet?" She asked, eyes still closed.

"No." He knew what will come next. "I'll wake you when I am." Minutes later, they were heading down the stairs and heard the TV on. They decided, without communicating, to see what or who was up. The lights were off, the TV bright enough for them to see Marvin with a video game controller in his hand. "Shouldn't you be asleep master?"

"But I'm not am I?" He knew his father's voice. But glanced anyway. "What are you guys doing up?"

"I'm travelling remember?"

"This early?"