As the first notes of the song rang out, Abbey resumed her fight to get to the stage. She could’ve taken advantage of the absolute silence while Kyle had been talking, but she didn’t want to do anything to distract from or minimize the impact of what he’d said. He’d taken control, taken a stand, removing his mom’s leverage once and for all. Abbey had never been prouder.
She needed to get to him, but here were so many people in her way, and she kept turning back to check on Granddaddy.
He squeezed her elbow. “Go get him, Butter Bean. I’m fine.”
“We’ve got him,” Emerson promised, linking her arm through his. Fiona took the other.
“C’mon. I’ll get you up there.” Caleb used his broader bulk to clear a path toward the side stage.
Abbey stayed close in his wake as Kyle continued to sing.
T
