Page 15 of Deadly Hacker

Helen was a nutritionist at a major hospital in their region of Georgia, working mainly with rural populations. She was obsessed with food and wellness, and her methods were firmly rooted in science. Her passion dovetailed neatly with her husband’s passion. He was a college chemistry professor, brilliant enough to be a research scientist, but he much preferred sharing his knowledge with the younger generations.

Between the two of them, Emma Jean had witnessed a lot of lively discussions and mutual support growing up. She thought the world of her parents, and she missed them dearly. It was hard being three time zones away from them.

“Oh, did you see that email I sent you the other day?” Helen piped up. “I linked you this new research I found that could help you fine-tune the snack selection you provide at the next Little Tykes’ Day.”

“Yeah, I read the study. Super interesting. I’m definitely going to implement a few changes to the menu for the kids,” Emma Jean said.

“That’s my girl. Always trying to improve,” said Paul proudly. “Those kids are lucky to have you.”

“Right back at you, Dad. How are those two students doing? You know, the ones you said might be falling behind a little bit?” she asked.

“Oh, they’re coming along beautifully. At the start of the summer semester, I could see their eyes glaze over. I don’t think their high-school curriculum fully prepared them for my syllabus. It’s kind of an adjustment for some kids. But last week, I could see the lightbulb starting to flicker above their heads. I have both of them scheduled during office hours this week. With a little help, they can catch up to their peers. I’ll make sure of it,” said Professor Porter.

“So, darling, how have you been?” asked Nurse Porter. “Met anyone interesting lately?”

“That’s code for ‘handsome,’” Paul interjected.

“No, no, no… well, maybe,” said Emma Jean’s mother. “I’m just curious what the dating scene is like out there.”

“You shopping for a new husband?” Paul joked.

Helen rolled her eyes. “No, but Emma Jean might be!”

“I’m not,” Emma Jean cut in with a laugh. “I’m perfectly fine being single.”

“Of course, dear. But you know, you don’t have to be married to your job. You can make time for yourself, too. How will you ever meet anyone?”

“Actually, I did meet a really good-looking guy the other day at work,” Emma Jean admitted. She left out the fact that Rad’s killer smile had been stuck in her head since the moment they met.

“Oh?”

“Who’s this young man?”

“Nobody, really. I mean, he was cute. Like,reallycute. But I get the vibe he’s a playboy type. I don’t like players,” she replied.

“Good instinct. I can’t tell you how many young girls have cried over a boy like that in my classroom over the years,” said her father.

“Oh, Paul, there’s a big difference between an immature college boy and a grown man,” Helen said with a laugh.

“Is there? Really?” he said, unconvinced. “Well, I hope so. For society’s sake.”

“Besides, our daughter has a good head on her shoulders. She’s too smart to let a guy like that break her heart.”

“I’m just saying Emma Jean deserves only the best. Don’t lower your standards for anyone, darling,” he told her.

“Don’t worry. I have too much on my plate to worry about some guy,” said Emma Jean.

“That’s good to hear. But remember, you have to be an open book to let someone read your pages,” said her mother sagely. “You’ll know the right guy when he shows up.”

Emma Jean nodded. “Of course. I’ll keep my eyes peeled.”

“Well, honey, we’re pulling up to the hospital now. I’d better hurry in before Dr. Brigham gets to the ward,” said Helen.

“Okay, send me a text on your lunch break, both of you,” said Emma Jean.

“Will do. Love you, sweetie!”

“Bye, darling!”

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