year-round opportunities here, and I think a lot of us wanted to stretch our wings and see what it was like to live where we don’t have to depend on a ferry or plane to get somewhere.”
“That did take some getting used to,” Mia agreed. “I almost moved home about a year after living here, when my mother was sick, and I had to get back to the city fast. The weather was rough, and the boats weren’t running, and I almost didn’t get a flight, either. I made it on the last one out before they shut that down, too. But my mother was fine. And I realized if the boats stop running, I’d rather be here than there. This is home now for me. Though my mother hasn’t accepted that yet. She’s still hopeful that I’ll come to my senses and move back to Manhattan.”
Sam laughed. “I don’t think I could ever live in a big city like that.”
“My parents love it. They don’t understand how neither one of their children appreciates it. My sister Izzy lives here, too. Do you have any brothers or sisters?”
He shook his head. “No, it’s just me, so my parents are pretty excited that I’ve moved back.”
“Is it temporary? Or do you think you’ll stay?”
“I’m planning to stay. It’s a good place to raise kids, and it’s hard to be a single parent. My mother has been a huge help.”
“I bet she loves having you all here.”
Sam smiled. “She does. It’s been good for all of us.”
Mia turned her attention to Barbara as Janie asked, “So, Barbara, tell us more about your fiancé.”
“And how come you never mentioned him before?” Ken added.
Barbara smiled. “I never mentioned him because I was afraid it was too good to be true and that I might jinx it. After I met him walking my dog, we ran into each other a few more times and then he suggested lunch and I liked that. It didn’t seem as serious as dinner. I told him if he’d suggested dinner, I might have said no!”
Mia smiled as she looked around the table. She liked these people, liked that they were all happy for each other and that they were going through similar struggles. When everyone was finished, they got the check and split it evenly. Ken made them laugh as they walked back to the yoga studio.
“That waitress told me to friend her on Facebook. I have no idea what that means.”
“How old is your granddaughter that taught you to cook?” Mia asked.
“She’s about your age—early thirties, right?”
Mia nodded. “Right. Why don’t you ask her to show you how Facebook works? It’s a great way to keep in touch with people and you can see pictures that your friends and family members are posting.”
“And if she gets me on the Facebook, I can be that waitress’s friend?”
Mia laughed. “Yes, you can send her a friend request.”
“Okay, got it. Friend request.”
Everyone said their goodbyes when they reached the parking lot.
“It was nice meeting you, Mia. Will we see you again next week?” Sam asked.
Mia didn’t hesitate. “Yes, I’ll be back.”
Chapter 12
“So, how was the bereavement group?” Izzy asked. It was Friday night and Mia, Mandy and Izzy were sipping chardonnay in the bar of the Club Car restaurant, which was right on Main Street. The food was good, and it was always a crowded after-work spot, especially on a Friday night. They’d just shared a few appetizers and were relaxing and people-watching.
“It was better than I expected, actually.”
“Oh, good. Does that mean you’ll be going back?” Izzy asked.
“I will. They’re a nice bunch of people. It was helpful to talk to them. You were right.”
Izzy smiled. “I’m glad to hear it.”
“What is Rick up to tonight?” Mandy asked.
“He’s out with a few friends.”
“How are things going with him? Any leads on a new job?” Mia worried that no one would hire him after he’d been fired from his last two companies.
“He started yesterday, actually. Another friend hooked him up. So, they’ll be working together, and they get along well, so fingers crossed that third time’s the charm. He is really good at what he does.”
“That’s great news. Tell him I said congratulations,” Mia said.
Izzy smiled. “I will. Thanks.” She turned to Mandy. “How’s everything with your new man?”
Mandy blushed. “Fine. We’re taking things slow. We’re getting to know each other. He seems like a really nice guy.” Mandy was recently divorced after learning her husband was cheating. She wasn’t looking