The Return
Charley untwisted the bag of rolls and emptied them into the bowl.
βHey, Uncle Chuck,β Nicole said, strolling into the kitchen, her flip-flops slapping on the linoleum.
He was still getting used to a grown-up Nicole. No longer the baby he once knew.
βDinner is almost ready,β he said. βPhyllis is finishing up the burgers.β
***
The family sat around the fire pit, digesting their hot dogs, burgers, various salads, washed down with cheap beer and wine coolers.
βItβs good to have you back, Chuck,β Mom said. βHow is the job search going?β
βGeez ma, give the guy a little time!β
That was Randy. Always defending me, Chuck thought.
βI have to brush up on my skills,β Chuck said. βItβs been a while.β
***
Chuck stared at the monitor.
βNeed help?β The librarian asked. Chuck looked up at the pleasant young woman, her arms holding several books.
βIβm just getting used to things again,β he said. βThis computer is newer than the one at my old place.β
The woman set the books down and pulled up a chair.
βHow can I help?β