Chapter 20
20
“ W hat a well-preserved car,” Ginger said as she settled into the buttery leather seat of Oliver’s vintage Jaguar convertible.
The car purred to life under Oliver’s touch. “I like quality, and I take care of things I love.” He looked at her as he spoke, his meaning clear.
She smiled and tied a yellow Italian silk scarf over her hair. He was full of compliments, but she didn’t mind. It had been so long since she’d enjoyed this sort of banter and attention.
“Ready for an adventure?” Oliver’s eyes twinkled beneath the brim of the jaunty driving cap he’d donned.
“Always.” Still, a flutter arose in her chest that had nothing to do with the car’s vibration. That was most unlike her.
Not that she’d forgotten how that felt.
As they pulled away from the Coral Cottage, Ginger caught a glimpse of Marina and the others sneaking glances their way. She smiled, imagining the excited chatter among them.
“I thought we’d take a brisk drive before dinner. It’s such a gorgeous day.” Oliver turned on the heater and maneuvered the Jaguar onto the coastal highway.
The warmth kept Ginger toasty against the brisk wind off the ocean as they whipped along the coast. The drive felt exhilarating, and she remembered doing this with Bertrand. “You’re an expert driver.”
Oliver grinned. “I had my share of races back in the day.”
“You were such a daredevil then.”
“I sure was.” He chuckled as he followed the curve in the road. “My risk-taking is more calculated now.”
Ginger adjusted her sunglasses and let that comment slide. Or maybe he hadn’t meant it that way. She was out of practice on the courtship scene.
“This reminds me of driving along the C?te d’Azur with Bertrand,” Ginger mused, letting the memories wash over her.
Oliver nodded with a wistful smile. “Margaret and I had a similar car in Buenos Aires. She always said it made her feel like a movie star.”
“She was such a sweet friend,” Ginger said.
“And you got lucky with Bertrand.”
“What wonderful times we’ve had.” Remembering the good times and focusing on possibilities was a choice she made every day. That’s why she chose not to relive parts of her life with Jack.
“And a few heartaches,” Oliver added.
She touched his shoulder. “Yes, but the rewards are worth it. One must come to terms with heartaches and move on. If I am defined at all, let it be by my contributions, not my sorrows.”
“Who said that?”
Ginger laughed. “I just did.”
“You’re a treasure, Ginger.” They chatted easily, and after a few minutes, Oliver turned on an old tune. “Remember this?”
Ella Fitzgerald’s voice rang out in Misty . “I loved this,” Ginger said, humming along. “I’m surprised you remembered.”
The music and their laughter mingled with the sound of crashing waves. As they drove, the initial awkwardness of a first date at their age melted away, replaced by the comfortable camaraderie of old friends embarking on a new chapter.
At a lull in the conversation, Oliver asked, “Do you travel as much as you did?”
“I still consult on the East Coast, though not as much. Occasionally, I take a trip with a friend, but I haven’t traveled like Bertrand and I once did. What about you?”
“I went on a tour a few months ago to the Amazon rainforest. The tour was interesting but going alone was not for me.” He glanced at her with genuine interest. “What’s next on your travel bucket list?”
“I’ve been dreaming of returning to Paris. There used to be a little patisserie near the U.S. Embassy that made the best pain au chocolat . I wonder if it’s still there.”
“Maybe we could find out together some time,” Oliver ventured.
“We’ll see,” Ginger replied with a small smile.
A self-conscious grin touched his face. “I’m being too forward, aren’t I?”
“Just a little, but it’s sweet.” She enjoyed the harmless flirtation. “What’s on your travel list?”
“I’d like to visit new places and experience new sights. Maybe the markets of Marrakech, or the wildlife of the Serengeti.”
“Sounds exciting. Where else have you been that you loved?”
“So many places, and I’ve appreciated each one,” Oliver replied. As he drove, he regaled her with tales of his adventures in Europe and South America.
Ginger loved hearing his stories. She was captivated not only by those but also by the man. He’d run a global advertising business for years. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, his wit sharp and engaging. And his memory was as good as hers.
“For two octogenarians,” Ginger said, a mischievous glint in her eye, “we’re certainly not acting our age.”
Oliver threw his head back in laughter. “Never act your age; it’s only a number. A person’s zest for living is what counts. And you’ve got that, Ginger.”
The sun dipped lower on the horizon as they continued their drive. They stopped at a small cove and talked more while watching the sun set, never running out of wide-ranging topics that interested them.
Renewed possibilities for the future emerged in Ginger’s mind. Here she was, embarking on what felt like a new adventure. The road ahead was uncertain, but with Oliver by her side and the wind in her hair, Ginger wondered if the best was yet to come.
“I have dinner reservations at Beaches restaurant near you,” he said. “Will that suit you?”
“They have an excellent chef,” she replied, nodding. “It’s quite upscale for the beach, but who doesn’t enjoy good food in a beautiful atmosphere?”
“I’ll add fascinating companionship to that, too,” he replied.
On their return trip, the conversation continued to flow easily between them. The sunset dusted the sky with gold.
Finally, they arrived at Beaches, one of Ginger’s favorite restaurants with the best ocean view in town.
“That drive was marvelous,” Ginger said. Feeling exhilarated, she removed her scarf and fluffed her hair.
Oliver watched her. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I thought you might.”
After they were seated at a table, Ginger found herself studying Oliver’s face, noting the laugh lines around his eyes and the distinguished silver of his hair.
They ordered Chef Marguerite’s special seafood medley. When the server asked if they would like wine, Ginger said to Oliver, “You probably have a long drive.”
“I’m staying at the Seabreeze Inn tonight. We can enjoy a glass. And I think I remember what you like.”
“Let’s see if you do,” she said, issuing a mild challenge. But he did, so she would have lost that bet. The server delivered the amuse-bouche and two robust Bordeaux wines to the table.
“Why are you staying overnight? Not that I mind,” she added.
“I thought I would look around.” Oliver sipped his wine, watching her reaction. “Maybe find a place to rent. I’ve already been in touch with a local real estate agent. Summer Beach is a very welcoming community.”
“It’s a wonderful place. I hope you find something that suits you.” She realized she meant that.
“What keeps you busy here?”
“When I’m in town, I volunteer at the senior center, teaching computer skills. And then there’s the Coral Cafe,” Ginger continued. “I helped Marina start it by contributing my guest cottage. We’ve had such fun, and it’s become a popular spot in town. She’s enormously talented.”
“What about your other granddaughters?”
“I have been abundantly fortunate.” She spoke with pride about Kai’s acting and directing, as well as Brooke’s gardening and family. Ethan, Heather, and Brooke’s children—she was proud of each of them. Then she shared the children’s books series she and Jack collaborated on and their latest project, her biography.
“My word, Ginger,” Oliver said, clearly impressed. “You don’t have time to be lonely, do you?”
“Time is a resource, and like all my resources, I use it wisely.”
Oliver looked at her with interest. “You haven’t changed at all.”
“Oh, no. We all do,” Ginger said. “Every day, hundreds of billions of cells in our body are replaced. We can and do change daily.”
“Then I have no excuse.” A wistful smile touched his lips.
Over dinner, they shared more stories and laughter, thoroughly enjoying themselves. Yet, Ginger detected an undercurrent of tension. The possibility of what might develop loomed between them.
After their meal, Ginger felt Oliver’s gaze on her. She decided to be direct, which was generally the best course of action between two intelligent people, she’d found. “Tell me what’s on your mind, Oliver.”
He chuckled. “With all that you do, I wonder if you have room in your life for a relationship?”
The question hung in the air between them. There it is , she thought, reminded of Bertrand’s sensible proposal so many years ago. Oliver was not unlike him.
He had a valid point. She hadn’t considered what having a man in her life might entail, mainly because she hadn’t met any she was remotely interested in.
“Your real question is not one, but two. First, do I have room for a relationship, and second, do I want a deeper relationship with you?”
Oliver smiled at her grasp of his question.
“We make room for what’s important to us,” she said. “That includes relationships, if those are worthy of us. What about you, Oliver?”
His face colored lightly. “You’ve already figured me out.”
She touched his hand as the server stopped to check on them. After the server filled their water glasses and left, Ginger changed direction. She wasn’t ready to commit to an answer. “Surely, you fill your life with interesting activities.”
“Did Bertrand’s diplomatic skills rub off on you, or was it the other way around?” Oliver smiled. “I can’t remember when I’ve had such a fascinating conversation. But to answer your question, I play golf and manage my investments. I coached a Little League baseball team until they grew up. But considering my billions of new cells every day, I should explore new frontiers.”
She respected that.
After they finished their meal, Oliver reached across the table and gently took her hand. “I’ve had a wonderful time tonight. I’d like to see you again, if you’re up for it?”
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 on Mary Poppins at 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.”
“I’d like that,” he said. “You’re full of endless surprises, my dear.”
Heather’s phone buzzed. “Blake is waiting for us at the cafe. And his mother just arrived.”
“Let’s go,” Ginger said, embracing Heather. “You look perfectly radiant.”
She recalled the small engagement party she’d had in Summer Beach at her parent’s home many years ago.
Recently, Arlette had joined Ginger, Marina, and Heather for lunch. Without her husband, Arlette was kind and happy to meet them. She’d told them how relieved she was that Blake had met Heather, taking the pressure off him to acquiesce to his father’s demands. She told them she and Ken were separated but going through counseling with the hope of saving their marriage.
As they made their way to the cafe, Ginger delighted in its transformation. Marina and Heather had turned it into a romantic beach wonderland for the engagement party. Even Leo had helped.
Stacks of kites, frisbees, sunscreen, and beach towels on a long table drew attention. Some of Heather’s local friends, including Sunny and Poppy from the Seabreeze Inn, had also strung a volleyball net on the beach for the occasion. Gift bags printed with Heather & Blake glittered by the gift table. Beach music played in the background, putting everyone in a light-hearted mood.
Blake’s voice rang out above the gathering crowd. “Hey, sweetheart, over here.”
Heather rushed to him, her face glowing with happiness.
Ginger noted the adoration in his eyes as he gazed at Heather. “He looks at her with such love. I know they’re a good match.”
With a smile, Oliver caught her hand. “You’re a fine judge of relationships.”
“I like to think so,” she said, touching his cheek. “And there is no one I’d rather have by my side than you.”
As they mingled with the guests, Ginger noticed Arlette, Blake’s mother, standing awkwardly by the buffet.
“Excuse me,” Marina said. “I’ll join Arlette.”
Brooke and her family joined them. “You look so lovely, Ginger.” She, Chip, and their three sons greeted them with hugs before Chip sent the boys off to fetch lemonade for Ginger and Oliver.
“Good to see you both,” Chip said, shaking Oliver’s hand. “Jack told me you like to golf. There’s an excellent public course not far from here. You’re welcome to join me sometime.”
Oliver looked pleased. “I’d sure like that, thanks.”
Ginger noticed the ease with which they included Oliver and expected his presence at family gatherings. Seeing how her family was adapting to this new dynamic warmed her heart.
She accepted a glass of raspberry lemonade from her eldest great-grandson, currently in high school. Sipping the refreshing drink, Ginger surveyed the patio. Marina bustled around, introducing Arlette and ensuring everyone had cool libations and food. Heather and Blake greeted their guest with hugs and laughter.
The beach party lasted until dusk, with rousing games of volleyball. Jack drafted Oliver into one game, and Ginger flew kites on the beach with Leo and Brooke’s sons, Alder, Rowan, and Oakley.
Many of the guests left, but the family and a few close friends remained, gathered around the firepit on the cafe patio.
Ginger and Oliver sat a little apart, relaxing and watching the continued shenanigans. She enjoyed being with him. He had a steady presence she was growing increasingly fond of.
Oliver wrapped his arms around her, and she leaned against him.
“What a perfect event,” he said. “I’m pleased for Heather and Blake. And I appreciate being part of this.”
“Everyone likes you.”
Oliver chuckled at that. “You sound surprised.”
“Why, not at all.” She shrugged. “Well, maybe a little. My family can be quite protective of me, so I was concerned they might not accept you. But you won them over. You’re practically part of the family now.”
“That makes me very happy.” Oliver kissed her cheek.
“Me, too,” Ginger said, smoothing a hand over his shoulder.
They had talked about how Oliver and Margaret missed having children, but they were close to their nieces and nephews. One nephew had already visited him in Summer Beach, and Ginger looked forward to meeting more of them.
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.”