Choosing how to love.

I could listen all night

HOLTON

Packing up was quick and painless. Madilyn had her plan, and everyone just did what they needed. It was a fined tuned system with her, and Holton found himself in awe of the way it all worked with her in charge of so many people. She had this down to a science, and when it was time to go, the truck was loaded and the line of goodbyes had started.

"Holton, I have to say, I am sad to see you not leaving with my sister." Roger leaned against the Jeep next to Holton. "It's better this way. She makes Craig happy, and that is more important to me." "Nothing wrong with that." "No, there is not." Holton looked back at Madilyn as she hugged her brother Charlie.

"Whatever happens, or doesn't, I do hope I see you around again. Maybe at the one next year? Crazy woman gets it bigger every year." "I'll be here." Holton shook Roger's hand and hoped that it was true, that he would be able to stay friends with her and experience this all again.

"OK people, let's move out!" Maddy called as she skipped over to where Holton stood with Roger. "Roger, as always, it was more fun than I could have imagined. Thank you for getting Charlie here. Three out of five was awesome."

"Keith and Paul wanted to come, but with kids and work schedules, it was difficult." "I know. Maybe we can plan something again before the end of the summer." "Lets try. And bring this guy around more." Roger patted Holton on the chest which caused a massive smile to form on his face. He liked Roger, he was a good guy.

"Aww, did you guys start a bromance?" Maddy batted her eyes causing her both men to groan, for different reasons. "Yeah, I think we did." Holton watched as Roger hugged her tightly and Maddy gave her brother that beautiful smile.

"Exchange numbers and hang out. Roger does computer things too, so you two should get along great." And with that bit of info, she skipped away to give Donnie trouble as Holton stood there watching her.

"She is like that all the time." Roger groaned. "A ball of energy?" "Yes. And are you into computers too?" "Software." "Alright. I would be happy to catch a game and have a few beers." Holton agreed and they swapped numbers before he crawled into the back of the Jeep. Craig was giving it a try up front, and although it sucked to be stuck back here, he was happy to give Craig  the chance. Besides, Holton was sure Madilyn was going to get Craig to do lots of uncomfortable things in the future.

MADDY

"Holton, I am so glad you came with us. I had so much fun and I hope you did too." Maddy stood in front of him and was truly sad to see him go. They had a lot of things in common, and she had a great time with him around.

"I am glad you asked. I did have a great time. More fun than I have had in years. And even though it's a year away, Roger made me promise to show up next year, so make sure you give me the date." "I will. And please, don't be a stranger either. Come hang out with us." Maddy felt her cheeks warm as they stood in the driveway looking at each other.

"You got it." Holton winked as he looked past her presumably to where the others were packing up their cars. Maddy was unsure how to hug him, but he did not hesitate when she opened her arms, and he pulled her in tightly and held her close. She inhaled his scent and tried not to, but she exhaled into him and he chuckled.

"Still the best hugs." She whispered. "I have to agree that yours are the best too." Holton laughed as he started to let her go but came back in and kissed her cheek gently.

"Take care of my boy." He nodded as he let go. "I will." And with that, Holton walked away, and she watched him go. As much as she tried to ignore it, her heart ached. Something about that man was special, and she was having a hard time not thinking about him.