Chapter 72

Matt went outside. Billy stood next to Jodi on the deck. She held a small red cooler and the shawl Rita knitted her. A large wicker picnic basket was propped on a rocking chair.

Jodi’s hair was tied in a ponytail with a sheer white scarf. It hung down her shoulder. She wore a yellow sundress that came above her knee. Her feet sported white flat sandals. Jodi smiled as Matt approached them. He smiled back.

“There you are,” Billy said cheerfully. “The path is a few feet that way,” he said as he pointed to the far left. “You probably saw it when you pulled in on Monday.”

“We did. You sure walking a quarter of a mile won’t be too much for you?” he asked Jodi.

“No. I need the exercise,” Jodi said with a smile.

“She’ll be fine, just don’t let her carry the basket. It’s heavy,” Billy said.

“All right,” Matt said.

“Have fun, Pussycat. I’ll see later,” Billy said and kissed her on the forehead.

“Don’t work too hard,” Jodi said softly.

Matt balled his fists in his pockets to keep from punching