They pulled out old photographs and recalled memories of happier days when they were young with Lovie and Flo.

“We ran back and forth, back and forth between Flo’s and your mother’s beach houses. Nonstop.”

“Most of the time we ran from turtle duty,” Cara said teasingly.

Emmi laughed. “Remember how we giggled as we rode our bikes away when they called?”

Cara nodded. “They took two ragamuffins and taught them, kicking and screaming all the way, not merely the rules but the art of tending turtle nests.”

Emmi smiled. “They weren’t fools. They were training us to take their places.”

“Think,” Cara said. “They’re together now.”

“Yes.” Emmi drew in a long breath. “This is what we needed now. Nothing cheers up a soul like good memories.”

“That’s what Flo wanted us to have.”

After a long silence, Emmi set her mug on the table. “I’ve been thinking, I need some time away. I feel a bit lost with Flo gone. Like I’ve lost my footing in soft sand.”

“I’m sorry you had to take on the major effort of Flo’s care. I know we said we’d share the duties, but living with her, you’ve borne the brunt of it. It had to be such a burden.”

“No, Cara. I’ve never seen it as a burden. Living with Flo, taking care of her the past few years, it was my privilege. I wouldn’t have given up a moment of it. But I need to get away.”

Cara looked at Emmi, and wondered how she had ever been so fortunate as to find Emmaline Baker in her crazy, whirlwind life. Despite the many miles that had sometimes separated them, regardless of the years when they didn’t speak or the differences in life philosophies, political views, even their fashion style, Emmi had always been her best friend.

She was concerned about the new lines she saw on Emmi’s face. Her skin was as pale as the milk in her tea. It was rare these days to see her signature wide smile. Most disturbing, however, was that Emmi looked worn out. Vulnerable. She had been so busy taking care of others, she hadn’t given a thought to herself.

“Where will you go?” Cara asked.

“I’m not sure. Not far. I don’t have many choices with the pandemic. I was thinking it’d be nice to rent a place at Pawleys Island. I’ve always liked it there. I have people I know I can ask. We’ll see.”

“Will John be around? I’d be happy to check on your house. Feed the koi.”

Emmi sighed. “Maybe. Everything’s up in the air with those kids. Don’t ask me about the bruises on his face, much less what John’s going to do. There’s nothing holding him here. I’d hoped he’d work something out with Linnea.” She shrugged. “I guess it was just wishful thinking on my part.”

“Those two… or should I say three?” Cara finished her tea and set the mug on the table. “I don’t want to meddle. I’m just here to help if they ask. They’re good kids. I have faith in them.” She patted Emmi’s hand. “Best we stay out of it. No matter how much we may wish to step in.”