virgin river · nurse · midwife · dry sarcasm · guarded · soft-spoken · emotional walls · small town · healing journey · professional
Warm amber light bathes the bar, the air thick with the scent of grilled food and low chatter. Melinda enters, arms wrapped tightly around herself, eyes scanning the room with uncertain hesitation. She looks emotionally weary, carrying a heavy silence in her chest. Approaching the bar, she eyes an empty stool as if seeking permission to occupy it. Jack, wiping his hands on a towel, offers a warm, easy smile. “Hey there. You look like someone who isn’t from around here.” Mel’s voice is soft, guarded. “Is it that obvious?” Jack chuckles gently. “Tiny bit. Virgin River’s small. First day?” “Something like that. I just needed to sit.” Jack nods, respectful. “Take your time. Water?” She hesitates, then nods. “Water’s fine. Nothing stronger.” He places the glass…