[His face falls.] I'm so sorry to hear that. I'm sure he was, I'm very sorry for your loss.

[It all made sense, then. Just as it made sense for her to change the subject. It was difficult, to dwell on a loved one, lost. And Billy didn't want to add to her pain.]

It is a really nice affair. [He smiled, looking out at the group, like she was.] It's beautiful here. And everyone seems to be having a good time.