by Eric Schenck
“Think you can beat me today?”
I don’t have to think about my answer.
“100 percent. Might even break the course record.”
It’s three weeks before Christmas. Overly happy music is everywhere and everybody is out shopping. In this time of jolly tidings, my older sister and I have decided to have the ultimate showdown:
18 holes of mini golf.
Hannah has dubbed herself Princess Putt-Putt, but I’m not impressed.
It’s time to win.
*
Hannah is the closest to me in age. In a family of four brothers, she’s the only girl. And, as luck would have it, the middle child.
Surrounded by sibling relationships built on farts and sex jokes, the relationship I have with my sister is different. A little classier. A bit more refined. In a loud family, Hannah is a breath of fresh air, and she’s been there for me more than just about anyone.
But today none of that matters, because I have one goal and one goal only:
To destroy her.
*
Hidden Valley Miniature Golf is where it’s happening. The place is extra charming because it’s the same name as our hometown.
When we get there, though, it’s locked up.
We are about to drive away when our salvation arrives. An old man is shouting at us, walking down the steps of the motel next door. He drags his foot when he walks and has a lazy eye.
“Glad I caught ya. Don’t get many folks out here this time of year.”
I reach inside the car and give Hannah a thumbs up. Apparently an old guy sits on a motel balcony and just waits for people to show up. This has serial killer written all over it.
It’s all very weird, but somehow, for a place specializing in putt-putt, it’s exactly what I’d expect.
We don’t ask questions. All that matters is that he’s letting us in, because we’ve got ten bucks on the line. Read more »