Page 45 of Protecting Gina

“Really?” Blakely asked. “What did you like about it?”

“The people. They told good stories. I mean, some of the stories were long-winded. I had to ask them to finish the story the next time I came around. I had a bunch of older people talking to me all day long. It was good.”

“Wow, that’s cool,” Cass said.

“I enjoyed hearing their stories. As I said, it’s not for everyone. Some of the people at the nursing home hated having to listen to the stories. Some people told the same stories over and over again. But I could see the joy on the residents' faces when I came in. Then I got my nursing certs and moved to working at the hospital. It was faster-paced than the nursing home, but I really enjoy working with older patients.”

Blakely shook her head. “I don’t think I could do that.”

“I’m good at science, but I don’t know,” Cass said.

Pen squeezed Blakely’s shoulder. “You’ll figure it out.”

“I know. Eventually. And I can always change my mind.”

Willa nodded. “You can.”

Wave came over. “I’m going to start the grill.”

“Oh.” Gina glanced around, wondering if she needed to do anything. “I can help.”

“No, relax and enjoy chatting with the women. We’ve got it covered.”

Willa put her hand on Gina’s arm. “They are good at taking care of stuff. We can get some drinks going.”

“Sure.”

These women were great, and the guys seemed great, too. Pen opened a bag of chips, and they started snacking on the chips while they made up the drinks. Before long, the first of the burgers and hot dogs were done.

The weather was nice enough that they all sat outside, though the backyard wasn’t huge. Everyone had brought chairs, so they all had a place to sit.

The guys joined in on the conversation with the women, which was nice. They talked about everything from places to eat to parks they liked. It was like being with a big family that got along.

Willa brought out a pan of brownies she’d made after they finished dinner. The guys seemed very excited about the brownies, and at her first taste, she understood why. They were very chocolaty and super gooey.

“These are amazing,” Gina said.

“Thank you. They are one of my favorite recipes to make.”

“Do you share recipes?” Cass asked.

“I sure do.”

Cass took another bite, then moaned. “Nice. These are too good.”

“I’ll send you the recipe.”

“Thank you.”

Cass moved to chat with Wave, and Gina watched them, glad that Cass had a brother who loved her. It was hard enough getting along in the world without having family there to support you.

Willa moved close and spoke in a low voice. “So, you and Wave?”

Gina laughed nervously, hoping Willa didn’t warn her off the man. “Um, yes.”

“That’s good. He’s a great guy, but he needs someone.”

Her eyebrows rose. “Needs?”