Charley untwisted the bag of rolls and emptied them into the bowl.

“Hey, Uncle Chuck,” 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.

“Dinner is almost ready,” he said. “Phyllis is finishing up the burgers.”

***

The family sat around the fire pit, digesting their hot dogs, burgers, various salads, washed down with cheap beer and wine coolers.

“It’s good to have you back, Chuck,” Mom said. “How is the job search going?”

“Geez ma, give the guy a little time!”

That was Randy. Always defending me, Chuck thought.

“I have to brush up on my skills,” Chuck said. “It’s been a while.”

***

Chuck stared at the monitor.

“Need help?” The librarian asked. Chuck looked up at the pleasant young woman, her arms holding several books.

“I’m just getting used to things again,” he said. “This computer is newer than the one at my old place.”

The woman set the books down and pulled up a chair.

“How can I help?”