At precisely eight, Aaron and his band started tuning up, then launched into their first song, the Johnny Cash classic “Ring of Fire.” Their first set also included (ironically enough) “I’m a Long Gone Daddy” by Hank Williams and Bob Dylan’s Nashville Skyline song, “Girl from the North Country,” big crowd favorites. The band left the stage for a short break, to the accompaniment of delighted applause.

WHEN CORD LOOKED over at Shallie again, he noticed that her expression seemed reflective, even a little wistful. Despite the fact that she obviously had friends, an ex she had a cordial relationship with, a career, enough money—he sensed there was something missing. At least in the current version of her life, as there was in his… He couldn’t keep from hoping that her enjoyment tonight had something to do with his presence. Just like his enjoyment was tied to hers.

The next set began a few minutes later, and requests were invited. “‘I Walk the Line,’” Eli called out, and the band, as usual, gave Johnny Cash his due with their energetic and poignant rendition.

Susan Robbins raised her hand next. “How about some Patsy Cline?” And the band obliged with “Walkin’ after Midnight.”

Four or five other songs were performed, and finally Brynne spoke up, making the last request for this set. “Sorry. Can’t resist, but I’d like to hear ‘Friends in Low Places’ by Garth Brooks.”

When the song was over, Eli asked in a tone of mock innocence, “Hey, Brynne Bailey, was that a comment on your restaurant?”

“What do you think?” she scoffed. And the set ended with laughter.

After the break, Aaron invited audience members onstage to sing. One drunken cowboy—or would-be cowboy (if his “uniform” of jeans, vest, hat and boots was anything to judge by) requested “Streets of Laredo” and sang in a rather wobbly voice—just as wobbly as his walk. Aaron ended the guy’s performance early with a loud “Thank you, John,” and helped him off the stage.

Next was a young couple who sang Loretta Lynn’s “Van Lear Rose,” followed by an elderly man with a surprisingly robust voice. Gentleman Jim, as he was known, sang “Your Cheatin’ Heart.”

Cord wondered if he could get Mitch to perform one of Bill Hollister’s favorites, Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind.” He remembered his grandfather singing it in his husky voice, remembered his grandmother smiling. He was about to lean over and ask when Carly suddenly got up and walked quickly to the makeshift stage. Cord was shocked and so, obviously, was everyone else at their table.

Carly whispered something to Aaron, who introduced her. “Everyone, this is Carly, and she’s new to town. She’s gonna sing ‘One of These Days’ by the great Emmylou Harris.”

Carly tapped her foot and started singing. Her voice was…astounding, clear and yet so expressive. So emotional. Aaron led the audience in vigorous applause.