The Intruders (42 page)

Muldowski was walking across the brow. Now he turned and saluted the
American flag on the fantail.

Jake cupped his hand to his mouth and shouted, “Muldowskil Hey, Bosun!”

The warrant officer looked up. He pointed.

“I’m getting married,” Jake Grafton roared. “Will you give the bride
away?”

“When?” Muldowski boomed.

“This afternoon. Wait for us. We’ll be down in ten minutes.”

“Is that the bride?”

“Yes.”

“I may keep her my—-’The rest of the bosun’s comment was drowned by
music as the band launched into another tune.

The women in the convertible were on their feet applauding. The bosun
started clapping too, as did dozens of people on the pier.

Callie was grinning broadly. She looked so happy. What the heck? In
full view of the world Jake swept her into his arms.