Page 60 of Coral Memories

Ginger considered this, projecting the array of future outcomes. A large part of her wanted to say yes immediately, while another part hesitated.

She’d been alone so long.

“I’ve enjoyed myself, too,” she said. “Perhaps we should take some time to think about what we both want. And go slower.”

Oliver nodded, understanding in his eyes. “As you wish.”

They left the restaurant, and Ginger found herself at a crossroads. The familiarity of her busy, independent life was comfortable and known. Yet, the idea of companionship and new adventures with Oliver was a fascinating new variable in the equation of life. Was she ready to risk her heart again?

Oliver pulled the car in front of her cottage and opened her door.

Taking his hand, she slid out. “Thank you for a lovely evening.”

Oliver leaned in, placing a gentle kiss on her cheek. “I’ll think about what you said. Above all, I hope we’ll always be friends.”

His lips were soft and warm on her cheek, stirring her feelings for him. “Friendship is the basis for the best relationships,” she said before closing her eyes and taking a leap of faith. She kissed him softly, and when she drew back, she saw unmistakable joy in his eyes. “On second thought, let’s see where this goes.”

Oliver embraced her. “Slowly, of course.”

Inside, from the kitchen window, she watched him drive away. She could still feel his arms around her and the love that emanated from him. In that moment, she knew her world had shifted.

While she was out for her walk the following day, Oliver left a message. When she returned his call, he answered, sounding happy and upbeat. “Have you been looking for places in Summer Beach?” she asked.

“I looked at three,” he replied. “And I just leased a bungalow near the beach and your cottage.”

Ginger was delighted. “Having you nearby will be convenient.”

“I can walk to the Coral Cafe for coffee. Would you mind that?”

“If that question includes an invitation, I’d like that very much.” She smiled to herself. The thought of starting her day with him made her surprisingly happy.

For the next few weeks,Ginger met Oliver nearly every morning at the cafe for breakfast. Marina and Heather became accustomed to seeing him there, and they developed a rapport with Oliver. He also got along well with Jack and Blake, and she was pleased to hear them asking him for advice.

Today was Heather and Blake’s engagement party. Kai and Marina were organizing the event, so Kai’s snappy show tunes were blasting from Heather’s room, where they were helping her get ready. Ginger would miss Heather being here, but with the cafe a short walk away, she could still see her every day.

Ginger dressed in a mid-length floral dress with a mustard-colored pashmina shawl wrapped around her shoulders. She had invited Oliver, too. The party would be their first family event together. She looped a strand of pink coral around her neck,added a sheen of pink lipstick, and clipped her ginger-tinted hair back with soft tendrils around her face.

When she heard Oliver’s car, she started downstairs. On her way, she thought about their evolving life—their walks on the beach, hikes in the hills, and even their joint presentation at the senior center. Oliver had impressed her with his financial expertise, complementing her computer skills without overshadowing her. It felt like a true partnership, much as she’d had before.

“Hello, darling,” Ginger said, kissing him lightly at the door. “I thought we should arrive early to help.”

Behind them, a commotion erupted on the stairs as Heather, Kai, and Marina came downstairs.

“Let’s go fly a kite,” Kai sang, twirling around, holding her belly.

Ginger laughed and clapped. “She’s considering putting onMary Poppinsat the theater next summer for the little tykes of Summer Beach. Although, I’d like it, too.”

Oliver kicked up his heels to one side. “If you need a grandpa, I’m available.”

“Why, Oliver,” Ginger cried. “What an impressive move.”

“Be careful,” Kai said, twirling a finger at him. “Keep that up, and I’ll cast you.”

“She’s not kidding,” Heather added. “We’ve all been drafted into Kai’s plays. The Christmas show still needs extras.”

“Are you in it?” Oliver asked Ginger.

“I enjoy being the announcer. Marina and I will trade off this year. You’re welcome to sit in with me.”

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