Chapter 24

“I think we can all take time to have one for the road,” George said.

“My sister and I don’t drink beer,” Sarah said, “but a glass of wine would be nice.”

The group celebrated for a while, and before it began to break up, Charley called for their attention.

“I just want to thank you guys again for all that you’ve done, and as soon as Joe is out of the hospital and well enough, we’re going to treat you and your significant others to dinner at Biscottis. Count on it.”

The group began to depart until only Chris, Mickey, Charley, and the Clark sisters remained. Ted had long ago lost interest in what the adults were doing and was in the library reading.

“You don’t see people helping people all that much anymore, do you, sister?” Sarah said.

“No, you don’t. I was truly impressed by what those men did today; especially since they did it for someone they didn’t even know.”

“You can give Chris the credit for that,” Mickey said. “He’s the one who put it all together.”