Chapter 13

“I did a horrible thing that I thought was a good thing. I wanted to bring us together by having us bet on who our new sparky would choose as his date, and when it would happen. It never occurred to me for one moment that such a thing would be hurtful to this wonderful young man. The fact that so many of us went along with my hair-brained idea is a painful reminder of the tragedy that made us determined to be tolerant as a community. I realize now what I started wasn’t based on tolerance, and for that, I owe Sam an apology. We’re at risk of losing this beautiful young man because of my stupidity, and I really would hate to have that happen.”

Michael looked at me and whispered. “What the fuck did I miss? It sounds exciting.”

I growled at Mike. “Later.”

Robbie once again took the mike. “Now, I’d like to ask Sam to come up for a moment, before we invite Mayor Williams, and the airport manager Mr. Kincaid, to take over the ceremony.”