Page 50 of Changing Tides
“Tierney was just telling me you two are planning some joint social media content.”
“Yes, I’m sorry, I should have mentioned it. It was your comment recently about my following that spurred me into action. If I don’t produce content I’ll lose them, and that won’t do any of us any good.” She sounded defensive to her own ears.
“Hey, it’s okay. Yes, you might have said something, but Tierney and I are fully supportive, and Tierney’s found herself something to keep her occupied and out from under my feet.”
The look of pure love Kasia shot in Tierney’s direction was enough to take any sting out of her words.
“So please use her as much as you need. I trust you not to let it disrupt your work. You know what you’re doing in the kitchen far better than I do.” Kasia’s smile was genuine, and Marianne wondered at the improvement to their relationship in a few short weeks. Relief ran through her.
“Thank you.” She turned to Tierney. “Let me know when you want to get started. I’d like to get the whole journey of those langoustines, from creel to plate, if possible.”
Tierney turned to the door. “I’ll grab my tripod and you can tell me where’s best to set up.” She left with a bounce in her step.
“Thank you.” Kasia’s smile was even wider. “I know it wasn’t your primary intention but giving Tierney a project is much appreciated. She’s not dealing well with being inactive.”
“She doesn’t have to be. I worked up to the weekend before I gave birth to Denny.”
“That might be possible for a chef. A very dedicated one, at least. But we’re moving into the summer season when Tierney’s main job is to teach water sports. She was so upset by having to hire an instructor this year.” Kasia stood. “So, thank you for taking her mind off it. There’s just one other thing I wanted to talk to you about.” She came and sat in the chair next to Marianne, removing the barrier of the desk between them. Marianne hoped it was a good sign.
“Earlier in the year, when Tom was still planning to stay, we were nominated for the regional Snappy Crab awards. I don’t know if you’re aware of them?”
Marianne nodded. “Of course I am. Anyone who works with seafood would be. We entered Batiya, too.” She rubbed her head. How could that have been such a short time ago? She had no idea if they’d gotten through to the next round before being disqualified.
Kasia didn’t acknowledge her change of mood. “Anyway, we got through to the shortlist and the winners are being announced next week. If we’re in the top three, we go through to the national competition and the mystery judges will be making a visit at some point.”
“Let’s keep our fingers crossed, then. The national competition is fantastic visibility. Who knows, we may even win.” She smiled confidently. She loved a competition.
Kasia mirrored her smile. “It’s reassuring to know you take such awards seriously.”
Marianne blinked and barked out a laugh. “What, did you think I’d only have time for Michelin stars?” It stung a little tohear that her employers still believed she was too full of herself to be interested in the success of their little restaurant.
“No, of course not. I only thought it was fair to let you know that we might be getting a visit from the judges.”
Marianne decided it would be best to let it go. She let some warmth back into her tone. “In that case I’ll make sure they get food to remember.”
“You always do, with every dish. I know that.” Kasia stood. “Now get back to your kitchen. I can see you’re itching to.”
“Thank you.” She returned Kasia’s smile and turned to leave.
“Just don’t get so popular you’re lured away from our little island, will you?” Kasia’s smile was less broad when Marianne glanced back.
“It would take a hell of a lot to drag me away from here.”
She closed the door and hurried back to her team, but deep down she wondered. Would she abandon the Waterside for a chance at the kind of job she used to get offered?
TWENTY
The laptop screen snapped shut,jolting Joey from their thoughts.
“You’re not really paying attention to these video clips, are you?” Marianne was sitting far too close and her warmth spread through their jeans where their legs touched. Aoife had Denny over to watch a new Disney film with the older kids, and Marianne had appeared at Joey’s door with a four pack of beer, her laptop, and a smile.
“Yeah, I was.” They ran their hands through their hair, reminding themself they needed a haircut.
“Your hair’s growing over your eyes. Doesn’t that bother you?”
Why was Marianne so observant? They weren’t accustomed to being watched so closely.
“It does a little. Especially on the boat in the wind. I’ll fix it later.”
