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“I saw your concert in Chicago.” The words tumbled out of the Texan’s mouth in a rush. “You were awesome.”
“Thanks. Was that the one we performed two years ago or last year?”
The Texan nodded.
“Ignore him, he’s an idiot,” Noah sighed.
“Two years ago,” the Texan added quickly.
“That was a great concert, but Elijah is the performer.”
“But you can sing too, and your guitar solo was amazing.”
“Thanks.”
“I got a shirt; will you sign it?”
“Of course.”
“You are pathetic, you know that, right?” Noah shook his head. “Grow up.”
“I’ll fine you all for loitering if you don’t move on.”
“Cubby?” Ryan looked at his old friend. Now a big, fit-looking man, he still had that deep chestnut hair. “I hear you and Katie finally got your shit together?”
The sheriff smiled. “How are you, Ryan?”
“Good, thanks.” It was his standard response because…. Well, to be honest, he wasn’t sure half the time how he was feeling. His life was a series of media events, studio sessions, and traveling.
“Tex is being pathetic because Ryan’s here. Can you punch him, Cub, seeing as you can get away with it?” Noah said.
The lawman shook his head. “We’ve been through this, bud. It unmans you and embarrasses us when you get all weak at the knees over someone famous.”
The Texan didn’t look insulted; in fact, he smiled.
“Anyone up for a game? Katie is taking my shift today, and she’s way more hard-ass than me, so watch out, locals,” Cubby added.
“I’m keen. I’ll just grab Christie and take her to Annabelle and meet you there. I’ll grab Brad,” the Texan said, keeping his eyes from Ryan.
“I’ll get Buster and call Newman,” Noah added.
“I’ll get Jake. You coming, Ryan?”
He looked at Cubby blankly.
“You forgotten how to throw a ball, bud?”
“No. I just haven’t done it for a while.”
“Those pretty boy looks may get messed up, so maybe you shouldn’t,” Noah taunted him.
“He’s been gone a while, so there’s every chance he’s too soft,” Cubby added. “Probably has someone tying his laces and feeding him now.”
“Like that’s going to work on me.” Ryan rolled his eyes. “I grew up with you lot. I know how you work, and I’m totally immune.”
“You want to teach me how they work?” the Texan asked still not looking at him.
The sound of doors slamming behind him had them turning. He saw Hope then, getting out of his mother’s sensible gray sedan. His baby sister. He was moving before he realized it. She had a big belly and long hair and looked the same and yet different. He ran the last few feet.
