The Jacket (5 page)

When Phil got out of the car in front of his house, Lucy leaned over so she could look up into his face. “I've got things all settled with your mom. She wasn't happy about you running that far from home, but I got her calmed down.”

Phil made a sheepish face and said, “Thanks, Lucy. I owe you one.” Then he looked at Daniel and smiled. “See ya round.”

And Daniel nodded and said, “Later.”

Phil started to shut the door, but then he leaned down, pointed at Daniel, and said, “Been meaning to tell you—that's a nice jacket.”

Daniel grinned. “Yeah, it's okay. Used to belong to this kid I know. He's a good guy.”

Phil said, “Yeah?”

Daniel nodded. “Yeah, he's all right.”

Phil watched the little car from his front walk until it went around the corner. Then he turned and went up the porch steps, two at a time.