“Your wedding?” Franny tried not to sound shocked, but felt sure she hadn’t pulled it off. “I mean, congratulations!” “Don’t worry, dear, I know it comes as a surprise to all and sundry.” Marilyn sighed. “Even myself, in a way. It’s a long story that I’d rather share in person. If you two haven’t had … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 36 Reboot

Kassandra turned from the espresso machine at the sound of the bell that hung over the door, and saw Allison enter. Although they were in different departments at the university, the two had a nodding acquaintance on campus, and were friendly at the coffee shop. “Hiya,” Kassandra said, relieved to have a customer. She didn’t … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 35 (Reboot)

Bending into the brisk spring wind, nose running and eyes watering, Allison walked straight north on Pine Street, toward the university. Her mind played with the thought that she was heading for the library to continue her literature review, but at the intersection before campus, she turned right. She meandered through the neighborhood, noticing the … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 34 (Reboot)

“What’s that?” Leo asked, head cocked like a collie trying to hone in on the voice of his master calling him home. Franny listened and heard a deep buzz pulsing from the pocket of her coat, hung on the rack by the door. “Oh, my phone.” She dug it out and looked at the caller … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 33 (Reboot)

Spring meant only one thing to Allison, Franny’s elfin neighbor: the deadline for finishing her master’s thesis was one quarter closer. This filled Allison with a sense of dread for which she had no rational explanation. Her data set was complete, her analysis was straightforward, and her conclusions were not likely to irritate any of … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 32 (Reboot)

It surprised Franny, her newfound love of cooking. In her previous, busy life, her kitchen had been a place to heat food prepared by someone else. She did her best to choose boxes of frozen meals that were marked “organic” and “natural” but who really knew what the conditions were like in the giant commercial … Continue reading Pine Street Episode 31 (Reboot)

Douglas and Marilyn's love affair begins, and ends, and their friendship lasts.

Franny talks with Douglas and Marilyn about the world, and scones.

Franny learns about deep love and care, watching Douglas tend to Marilyn.