Chapter 19

Bill seemed to have recovered his composure. “Sure.”

Bobby’s face was all smiles. “I watch all the games. Last week we went to the game for real. You’re a real good football player. You’re the best on the whole team. I want to be a player like you when I grow up.”

“That’s great. I bet you’ll be a good one.” Bill took the piece of paper and pen the woman was holding out. “What should I write?” he asked Bobby.

“To my bestest fan,” the boy said.

“Sure thing.”

To Bobby, my “BESTEST” fan. Bill Billingsly #87.

He handed the paper to Bobby, who looked at it as if it were written on pure gold. “Gosh, thanks, Mr. Billingsly.”

“You can call me Bill.”

“Thanks, Bill!”

Bobby beamed up at his parents, holding out the paper for them to see.

“Thanks a lot. I’m Noah Johnson, and this is my wife Molly,” the man said.

Bill slid out of the booth, stood, and shook hands with them. As he towered over Bobby, the boy’s mouth dropped to the floor.