After the scare of being on their own, it was a breathtaking relief for Carolyn as she sat quietly at the breakfast table sipping her perfect coffee. The last few days, as the kids suffered through her cold cereal breakfasts and canned soup casseroles, she could see how very happy her family was finally to be back together upon Martha's return from Florida.
It was also clear Martha had enjoyed her visit with her mother and sister in Florida, but equally was overjoyed to have the children cheer as she approached the breakfast table with an overloaded platter of eggs, bacon and toast. Sighing, she had to admit it was a huge relief to return to normal. After all she knew she was never going to be a success in the kitchen, and neither she, nor the children, and especially not Martha had ever had any illusions otherwise.
Yet as much as she delighted to see her children enjoying their breakfast, she did have to admit she rather missed the moments when Martha was away. Those quiet times, after the cereal bowls were cleaned way, when she and the Captain would linger together washing dishes. Nothing amazing had been discussed, nothing especially important or romantic occurred, just the kind of quiet conversation, the kind of back and forth any couple would share before beginning their day. As she looked up, she caught a glimpse of him peering at her and the family from the parlor. Clearly, or so it seemed, she was not alone regretting the loss of those peaceful mornings. She tried not to think about it too very much as she read the Schooner Bay paper. No doubt, they'd have time to talk soon, after the kids headed out and Martha began to set the kitchen to rights.