Crazy Thing Called Love (42 page)

“Let’s go.” Maddy threw open the door and walked down the hallway. When the guests saw her, they headed outdoors, and soon the backyard was flooded with everyone they loved.

Becky and Charlie were standing beside Billy, holding his hand while he talked to Coach Hornsby. Behind Billy stood a man in a suit. The minister.

Ruth walked outside, leaving her alone in the doorway, looking at her life.

The backyard fell silent and Hornsby tapped Billy on the shoulder and pointed over to her.

She watched him, this man she loved so much, she watched him stumble through emotions. A lot of confusion at all of the people who were suddenly in his yard, and then he caught sight of her and his face had that
what have I done to deserve you?
look that marked him as hers.

And then she saw the moment when he realized what was happening.

He gasped, his eyes flooded.

“Ouch, Billy,” Charlie said. “You’re squeezing my hand.”

“Sorry, buddy.” His voice was thick. Rough, full of every emotion that echoed in her heart. He leaned down
to kiss Charlie’s hand and then he kissed the top of Becky’s head.

“Surprised?” Becky asked.

“Always,” Billy said.

Blake, who had an angelic voice to match his devilish slapshot, started to sing and Maddy, more happy than she knew was possible, went to join her family.