Chapter 117

Billy scanned the diner, searching for Carolyn and finally finding her perched on a stool at the far endof the pink and teal laminate counter. Boys surrounded her, of course. He paused a moment, really looking. These weren’t boys. These were men. Grown men. College men. Talking to his sister.

He moved toward her, Gene close behind.

“Billy!” she cried out and hopped down so she could lean in for a hug.

“Carolyn.” Billy smiled as the men backed off, making room. He pulled back so he could introduce his friend. “Carolyn, this is Gene, my savior tonight. Gene, this is my baby sister.”

She elbowed Billy playfully. “My brother forgets I’m eighteen,” she said, flashing a smile at Gene. Billy bit back the jealousy when Gene grinned back.