Everyone knew what was coming.Īnn began reading. Let's hear how you did."Īnn unfolded her computer-printed grade sheet. She wanted to get a scholarship to Georgetown University and study international relations. She was trying to graduate from high school a semester early. Ann was taking two Advanced Placement classes and the rest were honors classes. She had been the youngest member of last year's Math Decathlon, and the team had placed first in the state competition. She was cocaptain of the girl's field hockey team and the girls' basketball team. So I guess those people who say we look alike are crazy.Īnn had been elected junior-class president. People say I look like her, except I'm not tall. Ann is tall, blond, athletic, and intense. Ann always read her grades first, then Todd, and then me.Īnn said, "I'll go first." No smile. The Reading of the Grades was a well-established ritual. It reminded me of the last meal they serve to a prisoner before an execution.Īfter the dessert dishes were cleared away, we were all sitting at the table, and my mom said, "All right, who wants to be first to read a report card tonight?" Plus vanilla ice cream.īut I wasn't that hungry. Apple crisp made with fresh apples from the orchard over on Route 27. We always had great food on report card day. There was a white tablecloth and lace placemats and tall green candles and the best silverware. Steak and baked potatoes and green beans and a fresh fruit salad and hot rolls and butter and strawberry jelly. My mom had made a fantastic meal and we ate in the dining room.
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