Uncle Mark she said They think he had a heart attack on the boat Mom said the crew did what they could but they never got him back Dad got up from the table wiped his hands on his napkin and put his arms around Mom I’m so sorry Beth How’s your mom Shocked Numb I think Uncle Mark is or was I guess Mom’s uncle My great uncle He’s been out here to visit a few times usually when Gran and Grampa come and we talk or talked over video chat on the weekends when he was at Gran’s for dinner I remember one time he did a whole magic show for me with props and everything Another time he taught me how to tie sailor’s knots I used a shoelace He was a pretty cool old guy Mom always called him her favorite uncle He never had any kids of his own so I guess he decided he didn’t have to grow up I told him they should have an AED on board I think I must have had that conversation with him a hundred times If they’re out beyond the bay and something happens there’s nothing they can do about it until they get back to shore Damn fishing industry Think they’re invincible Mom’s an ER doctor She thinks most accidents are preventable 2
What do you want to do Dad asked searching Mom’s face I I don’t I think I have to go Not only for me but for Mom I think we should all go Dad said slowly holding her gaze I held my breath I didn’t want to move in case they remembered I was there I think it worked because then Dad said It’s been long enough now Beth It’ll be okay Mom drew a long ragged breath Do you really think so Her eyes filled with fresh tears and she gripped Dad’s arm What about I just don’t know if Beth we need to go back It’s time Time to go home Mom nodded resigned but if I didn’t know better I’d say she looked more worried than sad 3
CHAPTER 2 Home It’s funny how home can mean different places for different people Even in the same family Home for me is Calgary Alberta Mountains prairies big skies and bright sunshine Home for Mom and Dad is Nova Scotia Dad grew up outside of Halifax and Mom’s from Cape Breton a big island on the northeast coast of the province Fishing fog tides and water It’s a place I have imagined for as long as I can remember I’m finishing up my packing Mom is downstairs crossing items off her list as she puts stuff in her suitcase Don’t forget to pack a pair of tights to go with your dress Meranda It may be chilly this week Mom calls up And make sure you bring elastics and a hairband or something to get your hair off your face for the funeral okay Got it Mom I hear the front door close when Dad gets home Hello 5
