Theresa started organizing her cards. “I felt like I was baking.”

“Did you meet anyone interesting?”

“Not really. Just read and relaxed in the sun. Most everyone there was with their families.”

“That’s too bad.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Well, I was kind of hoping you’d meet someone special this week.”

“You’re special.”

“You know what I mean. I was kind of hoping you’d find yourself a man this week. One that took your breath away.”

Theresa looked up in surprise. “What brought that on?”

“The sun, the ocean, the breezes. I don’t know. Maybe it’s the extra radiation soaking through my brain.”

“I haven’t really been looking, Deanna.”

“Never?”

“Not much, anyway.”

“Ah ha!”

“Don’t make a big deal out of it. It hasn’t been that long since the divorce.”

Theresa put down the six of diamonds, and Deanna picked it up before discarding the three of clubs. Deanna spoke in the same tone her mother did when they talked about the same thing.

“It’s been almost three years. Don’t you have anyone on the back burner that you’ve been hiding from me?”

“No.”

“no one?”

Deanna picked from the stack of cards and discarded a four of hearts.

“Nope. But it’s not only me, you know. It’s hard to meet people these days. It’s not like I have time to go out and socialize.”

“I know that, I really do. It’s just that you’ve got so much to offer someone. I know there’s someone out there for you somewhere.”

“I’m sure there is. I just haven’t met him yet.”

“Are you even looking?”

“When I can. But my boss is a real stickler, you know. Won’t give me a moment’s rest.”

“Maybe I should talk to her.”