Page 25 of Between Two Shores

His grin reached his captivating green eyes. “Perfect.”

Chapter Ten

BETH

The wind whipped around Beth’s face as she squinted from the bright morning sun. Her aqua floral top flapped as gusts of air swirled around her. She held down the wrap-around skirt so as not to expose her legs. Where was Nick?

The green industrial shed converted into a café stand had several tourists milling about. Most of them wore comfortable shorts and t-shirts. One middle-aged lady had a money purse strapped around her waist. Beth strolled toward the line, drawn by the scent of Italian brewed coffee.

Hands slipped around her eyes. “Guess who?”

She flinched and turned into Nick. Hot flushes zoomed from her toes to her cheeks. “Hi.” Beth blinked repetitively. This guy was bold.

He laughed. “I couldn’t resist sneaking up on you. I’m in a silly mood today. It’s so great to get off that ship.” He spun, scanned his surroundings, and took a deep breath. “Australia is a beautiful country.” Nick turned toward Beth, and his pupils enlarged as he focused on her. “And what a pleasure it is to have a sweet young lady as my tour guide. I’m a lucky man.”

She smothered a giggle. His enthusiasm was contagious. “I’m not that young, you know.”

“Thirty-three years old. Your dad told me all about you at the community centre. Gave me a long list of your accomplishments and talents. Is he trying to marry you off or something?”

Heat flushed her cheeks. “Usually, he beats the men off with a stick.” She laughed. “Not many, but any that dare approach me. I’m surprised by his behavior lately. But, don’t worry, I’m a woman with my own mind.” Beth smoothed her hair back from her face. “Where are your Navy buddies?”

“They had other commitments. Anyway, I’d much prefer spending time getting to know you and this gorgeous city you live in.”

“Are all sailors smooth talkers?” She placed a hand on her hip.

He chuckled. “I’m barely a sailor. I’ve only been with the Navy for six months. It’s not the lifestyle for me. I’m ready to move onto greater things.” Nick winked. “Starting today, where are you taking me, lovely Beth?”

She shook her head and grinned. “The Maritime Museum is on the way to the café strip.” Beth pointed to the artistic-shaped building in the distance. From where they stood, it appeared similar in style to the Sydney Opera House. “How about we have a look through, get a bite to eat in town, then head to the Fremantle Markets? Then, if you’re keen, we can catch a train to Perth City and visit Kings Park.”

“I’m keen.” He rubbed his hands together.

It was evident he was keen as beans.

Once inside the museum, Beth strolled, gazing toward the high ceiling where the Australia II yacht hung above. “Agh. There’s the secret keel underneath that helped us win the America’s Cup in 1983.”

“Oh, so long ago, dear Beth. Who really remembers these things?” He smiled.

“The Aussies do.” She tsk-tsked.

They moved across to another display with a giant copper whale, showing the size comparison to a dingy.

Nick handed her his phone. “Can you take a photo of me next to the whale?”

“Sure.” She took the cell and moved back to frame as much as she could of the whale. Although he must be around six-foot, Nick seemed small in comparison. He froze in a funny pose, with his mouth and eyes wide open, scared of the creature coming for him.

Beth held back a giggle. This guy loved to clown around, and she didn’t mind. His lack of inhibitions was refreshing, and she enjoyed his company.

Later, when they walked down South Terrace, they spoke loud over the traffic and noise about them. Nick kept asking questions, wanting to know her dreams and future plans.

“I once wanted to make it in journalism, but I’ve had no breaks in the industry. I work for a small paper, and the other reporters get assigned the exciting stories. I’m mainly an editor.” She swished a fly from her face. “I nearly got a big story, but in the end, the facts didn’t line up, and I wasted a lot of my time.” Lachlan’s image flashed in her mind. “And emotional energy.” She flicked the irritation away like she had the fly. She’d enjoy Nick’s company. Uncommitted to the Navy, unlike Lachlan had, Nick held a different appeal. By his questions, she could tell he wanted to know if their direction in life could align. Nick’s outlook promised adventure, and she tried not to get ahead of herself, but the possibility of traveling the world, securing money for charities, excited her.

At Pizza Bella Roma, they shared Bruschetta and a Caesar Salad. With full stomachs, they continued to the markets. When they passed the Sail and Anchor, a wolf whistle came from the top balcony. Nick waved at his Navy colleagues. Then touched Beth’s elbow and urged her to quicken her pace.

“Sorry about that,” he whispered into her ear.

“Don’t be. I’m used to the sailors coming into town. I just ignore it.”

“I’m not like them. I promise.” This was the first time she’d seen him somber.

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