Mr. Tan

Chapter 59: Crazy For You

Hours after this whole ordeal, Earl stayed out till the early evening hours drinking at a local bar. I knew my baby needed some time alone to process what happened to his beloved business. I couldn't believe it myself when he called me earlier today in tears. I didn't fuss and nag him when Rhett half carried him inside trailer. Earl was as drunk as a skunk, he wreaked of liquor and cigarette smoke. The sun was beginning to sink behind Sunnydale Mobile Estate when they came in.

"Man, brother Earl is really a wreck after what happened to his business", Rhett said as he carried Earl onto the couch.

I helped Rhett remove Earl's leather jacket. Rhett removed his shoes and cap since Earl was too drunk to do it himself.

"Fuuuuck, m-my baby, my bidness. Its gone, all gone", Earl half slurred, half sobbed softly.

I rubbed his arm to calm him and to keep from crying myself.

"If ya'll need anything, I mean anything at all, don't be afraid to give me a call", Rhett said, sounding sad.

"Thank you, Rhett", I said.

"No problem, sis", he replied.

Once Rhett left, I sat next to Earl on the couch. Earl covered his eyes with his arm, and continued to sob. I wanted to cry, too, but I had to stay strong for Earl. The phone rang and I went answered it.

Me: Hello.

Sheila Rae: Hey, sister-in-law, I heard about the tornado that hit Earl's Place. I was just calling to see how you all are holding up.

Me: We're devastated, but we'll be alright. Do you wanna speak to Earl?

Sheila Rae: Of course.

Me: Hold on. Earl, its your sister on the phone. She wants to talk to you. She knows about the tornado taking your business.

All Earl did was shake his no and turn on his side, away from me.

Me: Um, I'm afraid Earl can't come to the phone right now. Can I take a message?

Sheila Rae: Tell him I understand. He can just call me back at his earliest convenience.