Page 54 of Coral Memories

“I know, and I’m so grateful,” Marina replied. “But you’ve done so much already. You’ve been supporting all of us—mewith the twins, Kai with her acting and dance, even helping Brooke and Chip get settled in San Diego.”

Ginger nodded, thinking of Brooke, who was planning her wedding. They were already talking about starting a family. “Brooke and Chip will be fine. And Kai has found a new passion. Are you sure you won’t stay?”

“It’s time for me to find my path, too. The twins are a year old, and I’m ready for this next step. San Francisco will be new and exciting. Someday, I could be a morning news anchor and still have time to pick up the kids from school.”

Clearly, Marina had thought this out. Ginger was proud of her for taking a chance. Her granddaughters were growing up and finding their way in the world despite tragedy. That was the mark of character.

With Marina leaving, Brooke could look after Kai if Ginger had to travel for an engagement, as she would in the summer after school let out. Those assignments paid well, allowing her to do all she wanted for her granddaughters and the little twins. Bertrand’s retirement was adequate for her, but she needed to help the girls. And she enjoyed doing it.

“This calls for a celebration,” Ginger said. “I’m so proud of you, darling.”

As they chatted about the details of Marina’s new job and the upcoming move, Ginger felt a sense of deep satisfaction. She had stepped in to support her granddaughters through the most difficult time of their lives.

Each young woman was finding her way to a bright future. Marina and Brooke were following their paths, and young Kai’s goal was to audition for summer stock and commercials next year. She was so naturally talented that Ginger immediately gave her approval.

As her family moved forward, Ginger vowed to support them however she could.

Finishing the dinner preparations, she glanced around her kitchen. This home had seen many changes since Bertrand had surprised her with it on their wedding day.

Someday, the girls would all gather here with their children to play on the beach, just as she had as a child. She smiled at the thought as she and Marina carried their dishes to the patio to eat and relax.

19

Marina was tidying the cafe, and Cruise was cooking when Blake arrived for a late lunch, as he often did to see Heather.

“Have a seat at the family table here in the kitchen,” Marina told him. “It’s slowing down now, and Heather will want to eat with you.” She enjoyed having him here, and they were so sweet together.

Blake slid onto the bench. “I’ve been dreaming about those blackened salmon sliders you were testing.”

“You’re in luck,” Marina said. “We just added them to the menu.”

“Hey man, I can whip those up for you,” Cruise said, bumping fists with Blake.

“Hi, honey.” Heather swept into the kitchen and gave Blake a peck on the cheek. “I just closed out my last table, so we can talk about our engagement party plans until I need to start studying for my exam.”

“I’m open to ideas,” Marina said, brushing crumbs from her kitchen jacket.

“Ginger mentioned an elegant soiree at Hidden Garden, but we’re thinking of a beach barbecue,” Heather said, her eyes sparkling with pleasure. “Something simple and easy. Mom, I don’t want you or Aunt Kai or Ginger to go to any trouble planning this. We’re all super busy.”

Blake nodded. “Most of my friends are nearby. We figured we could set up a volleyball net and have a lot of fun.”

“Whatever you two want,” Marina said. “Ginger will understand. When were you thinking of having it?”

Heather glanced at Blake before answering. “We were hoping to do it before the holiday rush. Maybe in a couple of weeks? The weather will be warm enough, and the date won’t clash with Thanksgiving or Christmas holidays. That’s another reason to keep it simple.”

Marina nodded, already thinking of possibilities. “That’s a good idea. We could close the cafe early that day and use it as a base for cooking and preparations. It would be much easier than trying to transport everything to the beach. People can eat here on the patio.”

“Put me down for grill duty,” Cruise said.

“We sure appreciate that,” Blake said. “If it’s not too much trouble.”

Heather gave Cruise a high five. “Maybe Aunt Kai could give us some decorating ideas. I don’t want her to do too much. How is she doing?”

“She’s feeling better,” Marina said, wiping the counter. “Her tests came back normal, and the doctor told her that feeling tired is a normal part of pregnancy. Now that she’s taking naps, she’s bounced back like the Tigger we all know. Leo’s care basket sure brightened her spirits.”

“That was so sweet of him,” Heather added.

Blake’s phone rang, and he glanced down. “I must take this call. We brought in some seal pups that were injured. I need to make sure they’re doing okay.”

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