Page 62 of Coral Memories

Having known each other for many years, they had quickly fallen into step with each other. They’d already talked about keeping their homes, at least for now. They each liked having their space, although they spent a great deal of time together.

“Ginger Delavie,” Oliver said, shaking his head in amazement. “I feel like the luckiest man in the world these days.”

Feeling close to him, she kissed his hand. “We have your brother Kurt to thank for playing matchmaker.”

He chuckled at that. “For you, not once, but twice.”

She realized that was true. “We’re so fortunate to have another chance at companionship.”

“And love,” Oliver added, lifting a strand of hair from her forehead.

“Yes,” she agreed, with all the happiness in her heart. “And love. We have so much to look forward to.”

“More stories, laughter, and memories to make,” Oliver said. “Our first holiday season together and trips to plan.”

A thought crossed her mind and she smiled. “Jack might have to add another chapter to the manuscript.”

For the first time in years, Ginger was excited about the prospect of romance. She looked forward to a new phase of life with Oliver with all the joy in her heart.

“My dear, dear friend,” she said, raising her face to his. “I seem to have fallen in love with you.”

Against the flickering flames of the firepit, Oliver kissed her. “And I’ve fallen for you all over again.”

EPILOGUE

“Fresh blueberry, cranberry orange, and banana nut muffins,” Ginger said to passersby as she spread Marina’s baked goods on the table at the farmers market. Aromas of fresh produce, flowers, and baked goods filled the air.

The holidays had passed with plenty of celebrations, including her first Christmas and New Year with Oliver.

Now, the snowbirds were returning to Summer Beach. The market was already busy.

Brooke was running late this morning because one of the boys had been ill last night. With Chip away on a long shift at the fire station, she had to pick up medication before she left. She had called Marina to see if she would set up the food stall for her.

Ginger also volunteered to help. She turned to Marina. “Have you seen Kai?”

“Not yet, but she should be here. She usually shops for produce early.” Marina sliced samples of bread, muffins, and cookies.

“Those muffins look delicious,” one woman said, pausing at the table.

Marina offered her a tray of assorted samples. “Have a taste.”

“It’s an old family recipe,” Ginger said. “You’ll find it in my granddaughter’s upcoming cookbook,The Sunny Coast Table,which is available for preorder now. Marina owns the Coral Cafe.”

“I’ve heard of that,” the woman said. “We’ve just returned to our beach house. Last year, I bought organic vegetables from Brooke. Will she be in today?”

“Soon,” Ginger assured her. “Be sure to come back.”

After the woman made her selections, Marina wrapped up her order and tucked a bookmark inside. The preorder page was live, and people were already placing orders.

“I hope Oakley feels better today,” Marina said, putting out more breads and muffins.

Ginger agreed. “I’m sure Brooke will be here soon enough.” She usually picked up the baked items from the cafe because Marina was busy prepping food and serving the morning crowd. Fortunately, Marina left Cruise in the kitchen with Heather and a new server she was training as her replacement.

Marina looked up. “Here’s Kai now. And Brooke is right behind with her veggies.”

“I was starting to worry about you,” Ginger said to Kai, walking to the front of the stall to greet her. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m tired. I couldn’t sleep last night.” Kai rubbed her back.

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