Bisson_rucker_billys.. - Rudy Rucker

BILLY AND THE TALKING PLANT
One day Billy got sent to the office. The principal said, “Run home, Billy. Your
grandfather has fallen down dead.”
Billy ran home. It wasn’t very far.
His grandfather was on the floor in the living room, but he wasn’t dead yet.
“He wants to watch TV while he passes away,” said Billy’s mother.
“They should call it the dying room,” said Billy’s grandfather. He was always making
jokes.
He had a big Harley. He wore a black leather jacket that said Bikers for Christ on
the back, and he gave Billy a Savings Bond every year for his birthday.
Billy didn’t like Savings Bonds but he liked his grandfather. “Don’t die yet,” he said.
“Not till this show is over,” said Billy’s grandfather. Jerry Springer was on. It was
like school. They wouldn’t stay in their seats.
§§
“My time is almost up, Billy,” said Billy’s grandfather. It was during a commercial. “I
am leaving you my colors.”
He handed Billy his jacket. “It’s too big for me,” said Billy.
“You’ll get bigger,” said his grandfather. “And I have something else for you.”
“What?” asked Billy. He hoped it wasn’t a Savings Bond. Maybe it would be the big
Harley!
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