Page 25 (1/2)

after you had told et the idea at least"

"Great? It's reat Harley, this is wonderful You have such a talent"

"I can do a little," he reluctantly admitted

"Stop it Harley Arnold Stopyourself sound like nobody This is the best picture"

My throat closed and opened with the ache in my heart

"Oh Harley," I cried, the tears streaking down ift of all!"

I threw ed him and then kissed his cheek, but held onto him He had his arms at my waist and for a moment, as if we had just opened a door, we stared into each other's eyes, neither retreating fro of our lips, the surrender of ourselves in a caress so gentle and yet so co moment after we parted I kept my eyes closed as if that would keep his lips on mine and lock the memory forever in my heart

"I gotta go," he said quickly and jumped to his feet "Harley"

"I'd better get back and face the music" he said

As if he had to flee fro

Then he stopped, turned, and waved "Happy birthday" he cried

"Thank you"

He walked on Moh a shadow and appeared on his front porch I saw him hesitate, open the door, and disappear inside

Finally

I took a breath,