The Shoes Come First: A Jennifer Cloud Novel

by Janet Leigh

  ~

  Dad turned off the main road and entered the tree tunnel. I loved the way the light filtered through the branches. Even though the weather was warm, I thought an outdoor wedding was very romantic. We turned into Aint Elma’s driveway. I guess it would be Cousin Trish’s driveway now. Instead of a chaotic parking lot, there were two men in black tuxedos, sweating profusely, waiting to take our car. My dad pulled up and rolled down the window.

  “Howdy.”

  “Hey there, yous wantin’ your car parked?” asked the big guy, mopping his forehead with a handkerchief.

  “Sure thing,” said Dad, turning off the ignition and handing over the keys. A smaller guy with dark, curly hair and wing-tip shoes came around and opened the doors for Mom and me.

  Everyone climbed out, and the smaller guy said, “I’m Sid, Vinnie’s cousin, and this here’s Anthony.” He pointed to the big man who had placed himself in the driver’s seat.

  “Yo.” I guess that means hello in Anthony language.

  We made introductions. Sid and Anthony took off in the car to God knows where—probably the chop shop.