CHAPTER 34

Showcase auditions might be over, but as the limo that picked me up at DFW pulls up Eddie"s driveway Saturday afternoon, I feel as if the real test is beginning. As I step out of the car, a stinging breeze sweeps past, lifting the hairs on my arms despite my sweater and denim jacket. When I reach the top of the familiar stairs, my fist hovers over the door, but before I can knock, it swings wide. "Timothy!" Haley"s beaming face takes the edge off my nerves. When she opens her arms wide for a hug, I can"t resist. Even though I"m bigger than her, it feels as if she"s the one holding me. "We were so glad you called." "I know it was last minute," I say against her dark hair. "Not at all. We live minute to minute around here. We have a guest bedroom ready for you tonight. I only wish you"d stay longer." Something bumps