“Before we say a few words about Philip and Hailey, we have some people who couldn’t make it tonight but who wanted to send their regards,” Mich...ael said into a microphone. “These started arriving last week and we crafted them together into a small montage for everyone.”The lights dimmed and a video appeared on the far wall. Phil and Hailey recognized Ted Billings immediately.“Greetings and congratulations from Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois,” Ted said with a grin. “I’m sorry. ”They’d lain awake through boundless nights talking first of their hopes and dreams, then their challenges and accomplishments and finally to the house they’d aimed with the good Lord’s guidance and grace to enter as the finish came into focus. Both wanted to be laid to rest in the state they’d been born.“Well, actually I don’t mind joining you, Gomer.”Her daddy had at one time voiced serious doubts about the man she’d chosen over the one he’d so directed her to; Monroe Efford.But, her daddy. She finally looked him in the eye, those deep green eyes. Ben walked round the desk purposefully and took Izzy’s face in his hands and kissed her. A long, soft, passionate kiss. Izzy let out a long sigh. ‘I thought that might never happen again,’ she whispered. ‘Me too.’ Ben said truthfully, he looked at her closely, taking in her beauty. He took a deep breath ‘Izz we need to talk about this.’ ‘I knew it,’ she took a step back, the smile dropping from her face. ‘Not that, Izzy, not that,’ he. I came back here to clock out. I better get a move on.”“Good luck this afternoon.”Rebirth“George Evars?”“Here, sir.” Gee felt like a schoolboy being called upon when the judge first called his name. They were in a conference room, not a courtroom, but there were several people jammed into the small space.“Welcome to the community, George,” the judge smiled. “Just wanted to make sure I was addressing the right person. I’m told you prefer to be called Gee.”“Yes, sir. I’m used to it.”“And Jack.