Page 13 of Changing Tides
“Thanks, I’ll see.” Joey paid Tina on the way out and quickly crossed the quay. The gray day had cleared into hazy sunshine. They hoped the weather would stay dry for the lifeboat training session they were leading later.
They hadn’t long been back on board before they heard the rough roar of Doc’s aged diesel engine. They ducked out of the wheelhouse to see Doc helping Tierney down the step.
“That was quick.” They stood close as Tierney got back on board. “Thanks, Doc.” They waved as she got back into her vehicle.
“I’ll see you at four tomorrow for your appointment,” Doc said.
They didn’t have an appointment, but they always turned up when Doc summoned them. She was a good person to have in your corner.
While Tierney settled inside, Joey untethered the boat and jumped on board. “How did it go?” they asked.
“It was all good. I’m progressing well, and they’ve booked me in for a scan in two weeks’ time.” She put her hands on the small swell of her belly and smiled.
Joey pulled the boat away from the quay. “You’ll need to get someone to cover the hotel for the scan. Kasia will explode if she misses another appointment.”
“I know. But it’s a difficult time. The regular seasonal workers are going back to college after Easter, and we’ll be getting busier. Tom’s resignation isn’t helping the situation.”
“If there’s anything I can do to help, let me know.”
“You already do plenty, Joey. And we appreciate it.”
Joey’s thoughts went back to Marianne. They found it hard not to help when people were in need, and Marianne seemed like she needed all the help she could get. They shook themself. It truly was none of their business. The chances were Marianne would shortly be back in Dublin surrounded by family and support.
“It’s lifeboat training tonight. Is Kasia up for it?”
“Oh, yeah. There are some things she’ll drop everything for, even if it terrifies her. Try not to be too late, though. Okay?”
“It’s out of my hands. Seán’s in charge and he does enjoy his health and safety briefings.” Grinning, they turned from the wheel. “I’ll drive the lifeboat extra fast if you like?”
“I donotlike.” Tierney moved up alongside and screwed up her nose. “I miss it. I was barely qualified as a helm before I had to stop.”
“The lifeboat will be there when you’ve had the baby. You need to stay safe for now.”
“Oh, don’t I know it. I get told at least a dozen times a day.” She turned to face Joey. “I’m totally excited about being a parent, but this period feels a little dull. And uncomfortable.”
“It’ll soon be over, and life will never be the same again. Are you ready for that?” Joey failed to hide their wistful tone.
“Yes, absolutely.” She put a hand on Joey’s arm. “Did you never think about having a kid?”
Joey frowned. “You’re the second person to ask me that this week.” They looked back at the wheel. “I can’t have children.”
“There’s loads of ways to be a parent, Joey. And you’re so good with kids.”
“I have a hard job with long hours. I don’t think being a single parent would really work, do you?”
“I’m sorry, I’m being insensitive. I’m so excited about this that I want everyone else to do it, too.” Tierney slipped an arm around Joey’s waist. “You’re going to be the best godparent ever.”
Joey hoped that was enough. Everyone around them seemed to have children. The hotel was full of them all the time. And they did wish there was a way they could have their own family. But much as they loved their life, most people wouldn’t want it. Not for more than a vacation, at least.
SEVEN
“Colette,thank you for returning my call. I’m so sorry, I had no idea what was happening.” Marianne was trying to juggle feeding Denny as she wedged the phone under her chin. Denny dropped his spoon, picked up a handful of mashed potato, and smeared it on his face. She resisted the urge to take the spoon and feed him. She had to let him work it out for himself, but she couldn’t stand the mess.
“It was your business, Chef. You had a responsibility to your staff.”
“Don’t call me that anymore. I’m not your chef.” She felt the pain of the truth in that statement. She wasn’t anyone’s chef. Her kitchen had been everything to her. When she’d calmed down and sobered up enough, she’d sat down with Amira and they spent long hours trying to find a way to salvage the business. It hadn’t taken long to understand the extent of the problem. If they sold the building and most of their assets, they could at least pay off the debts. But then what?
Denny grabbed her hand and squeezed cold mashed potato between her fingers as if to remind her there were more important things in life than work. She wasn’t reassured.
