“It’s at this angle because the wheel base is wide and the turning radius is quite small. It takes more rotations to manoeuvre the truck and therefore requires a larger wheel to cover the surface.”

“That’s not what Mr. Timothy said.”

“I thought you said Tim wouldn’t tell you.”

“I just wanted to see if your answer was the same.”

“And what did Tim Katwell tell you?”

“He said it’s like that so you don’t forget you’re driving a bus. That no one else would have a wheel in such a ridiculous position. Only a bus. Then you don’t forget.”

“I think Tim was pulling your leg.”

“What?”

“Nothing. Sit back, please, Mr. Marvin. I may have to make a quick stop.”

“How are the brakes?”

“They’re just fine.”

“Can I steer?”

“Can you what?”

“Can I steer the bus?”

“For god sakes, no! What made you think you could steer?”

“Mr. Timothy let me.”

“Oh did he?”

“Yes. He let me every Thursday and on my birthday.”

“I think you’re telling me a fib Marvin. Sit back, please.”

Coston & Maine: six more. Lawrence looked in the bubbled rearview as the next batch of new faces piled on. Marvin read his driver’s licence behind the clear plastic board. Lawrence Fountaingale’s blood pressure increased more blood pressure units.

Marvin waited until the kids took their seats. There were enough of them now for the screaming to get loud. He leaned toward Lawrence. Lawrence pulled the bus away.

“Lawrence Fountaingale.”

Lawrence made as though he did not hear. Marvin waited for a response, then read the name again.