Galina Reznikov hated the old Nissan Altima. Even though it was a sedan, Red never felt as if she had enough room for her still magnificent legs.
And my ears are ringing, Red thought to herself. Was it because of being hit by that animal, Vee, with the combination lock in a sock, so many years ago?
Red felt Norma looking at her and she reluctantly smiled. Norma and Red usually took the front seats, but Norma had taken up crocheting.
"How-how-are you-Red?" Norma smiled hesitantly.
Yoga turned her Tweety Bird head around from the front seat. "Listen to that! Norma, you sound grand. Keep talking!"
Norma blushed, and Red shook her head, grinding her teeth. Why did Yoga not understand...Norma just wanted to be like everyone else, and not be complimented.
Red gave Norma one of her rare smiles. "I was happy with Norma's notes, and I love to hear her voice. Silence from others might be a nice thing, though."
Refusing to be baited, Yoga turned her head back and began talking with Alex Vause.
There was a dull thumping from the trunk.
Norma's eyes spoke reams that only Red comprehended: That poor guard!
Red smiled and pressured her friend's hand. "We may not have to kill him, dear. Speech therapy"-Red looked derisively at the front seat-"Laetrile farms, my deli, it all costs so much.
I was terribly proud of you, Norma, when, without a stammer you shouted 'This is a hold up!' and that silly loan officer peed his pants. I only wish Frieda was alive to see our good work."
Norma smiled back, squeezed Red's hand, and tried to ignore more of the banging, and more than a little sobbing, from the trunk.