Part 320 (1/2)

able to make music again. ”I don't know. We could ask ourselves

forever, but it wouldn't change.” She drew back. ”Dad. We have to set

it aside. Not forget, but set it aside.”

”A new beginning?”

”G.o.d no.” She smiled. ”I wouldn't want to begin again. Not for

anything. Finally I know where I am and where I want to go. I don't

have to be afraid anymore. I don't have to wonder. And I can stop

blaming myself, because I didn't run this time.”

”You were never to blame, Emma.”

”None of us were. Come inside.” She drew him into the light and the

warmth. In the silence, she walked to the television and switched it

on. ”I want to hear them say your name.”

As she watched the set, P.M. touched her arm. ”Emma.” Unable to find

the words, he brought her hand to his cheek.

”Here we go, mates.” Johnno laid a hand on Brian's shoulder as the

nominees for Song of the Year were announced.

Emma held her breath, then let it out on a laugh when she heard Brian

McAvoy and Johnno Donovan. ”Congratulations.” She swung her arms around

both of them. ”Oh, I wish I could have handed it to you.”

”Next year,” Johnno said, giving her a quick, hard kiss.

”It's a promise. It's important,” she said, squeezing Brian's hand. ”It

means something. Don't let what happened spoil this for you, or for

me.”

”No.” He relaxed, and when he smiled she watched it reach his eyes. He

threw an arm around Johnno's shoulder. ”Not bad for a couple of aging

rockers.”