Between Two Shores

28. Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Lachlan

Lachlan filled the water jugs, placed the AA brochures on every third seat, and anything else needed doing.

Soon after, he paced the back of the hall, wearing a path in the old linoleum. Why hadn’t he thought about how it’d look for Beth to come home with a different American sailor? Chris was already teasing him about being smitten with Beth. Apparently, everyone else was picking up on his feelings as well. Here he had plans to defend her against any attacks, but it’d just occurred to him that his presence would cause more angst for her reputation. Would they remember him from two years ago—a navy counselor? He rubbed the side of his face. Her first Saturday wasn’t the day to make his comeback.

They had a guest band this week. A singer holding a mic, stepped too close to the guitarist, and the sound speakers shrieked.

Perhaps Lachlan should hang out with Beth’s brother-in-law. He’d met him briefly while helping set up this morning. Beth would understand it was for the best, or would she? He promised her he’d stick by her. Better not back out now when he needed to gain her trust.

He scanned the room to find Beth. She stood at the open doors, to distribute women’s care packs, and smoothed down her long skirt. He strode over and whispered in her ear, “Beth.”

She startled. “What’s up?”

“Do you think it’s a good idea, us serving together on the breakfast counter? Would it encourage people to talk?”

Her eyes widened. “You’re right. Maybe just come straight over after the meals are served. Then I’ll introduce you to the team as Chris’s friend . . . and mine.”

“Right. Good.” He scurried away to find the brother-in-law, what’s-his-face. Remembering names wasn’t his strong point

BETH

Beth clapped her hand to her thigh, humming to the band’s lyrics. Swirls in her belly spun faster and faster, like a mini-cyclone ready to take her through the ceiling. Soon the regular volunters would see her for the first time in months. Dumped at the altar. Kind of like that.

Volunteers began to appear from the commercial kitchen, placing deep metal trays of food on the serving counter. Time to face the gossip.

Beth gulped when Tina slammed her tray down and made a bee-line for Beth. “Tina! How are you this morning? Love that color on you.” Beth enthused. She glanced past Tina’s shoulder. Where was Lachlan? Since he was a fairly new face, he’d get swarmed with welcomes.

Tina grabbed Beth’s wrist, demanding attention. “Dear Beth. I heard what happened with that sailor. Beth, darling, how shocking!” Her lips shaped an “O”, jaw hanging.

Beth winced. “Yes. I was in shock. Let me tell you.”

Tina grabbed her other wrist and drew her to the IKEA seats. “Do tell. I want to know everything, dear.”

A throat cleared. Lachlan stood before them, a charming smile on his face.

She nodded rapidly, thankful for the rescue. “Tina, let me introduce you to a friend. Lachlan, this is TINA.” She widened her eyes, emphasizing the words, hoping he’d remember their conversation. This was the one. Warning, warning.

“Oh, Tina, is it? Lovely name. I knew a Tina once, in high school.”

The woman’s face scrunched. “You’re American.”

“Guilty as charged. I’m friends with Chris Evanson. Also, an American.” He nodded his head slightly to the side in a gentleman bow. “I’m working at his restaurant, here on a visa. But I happen to know Beth too. She stayed with my parents after the Nick fiasco.”

Beth wrinkled her brow. Was fiasco the best word to use right now?

“As a qualified counselor, I explained to Beth that the behavior her ex-fiancé showed lined up with mania. Unfortunately, Nick’s mother confirmed he wasn’t well.”

Beth nodded and waved her hand for him to continue.

“When a person becomes elevated, they project a drive and passion for grand ideas and ambitions. It's easy for those around them to get caught up in their excitement. It’s not sinister at all. A biological impediment on the brain confuses a person with Bipolar.”

“Bipolar? My friend has Bipolar type two. I’m familiar with it.” She tilted her head toward Beth. “Oh, that’s understandable, Beth. No wonder your father didn’t see it. Did Nick become very spiritual in the end?”

“Yes. Very much. An urgency to help people and leave for Jerusalem. So that’s where he went, I assume.” She shrugged.

The woman’s jaw dropped. “You haven’t heard from him?”

“No. I tried to call him several times, but it’s over.”

Lachlan snapped his attention to Beth, eyebrows raised.

Didn’t he know it was over? Of course, it was. She couldn’t go back to Nick, even if he asked her. His mother’s stories told her it was no use, and Beth had peace that it wasn’t her responsibility to fix Nick.

Tina tapped Beth’s hand. “Well, now you know. Don’t go rushing into any relationships in the future.”

Beth nodded and gave her a fake smile. Thanks for the obvious advice.

Lachlan pointed over his shoulder. “Beth, can you introduce me to the volunteer team?”

“Let’s do that.”

LACHLAN

Lachlan smiled at the sight of his mother’s face lighting up his iPhone screen.

“It’s been two weeks, my boy, why haven’t you called? Too busy romancing Miss Australia?”

He cackled. “Mom. Stop it.”

“So, what’s the latest? How’s it going between you two?”

He strolled to the fridge and grabbed a cold soda. “I’m having a blast here. And I’ve seen Beth every day.”

“That’s good.”

“Yeah, it is. There’s a newlywed couple that we hang out with, and her sister is engaged, so we’ve had dinner there twice. When I have a night shift at Bayside, I’ll see Beth for lunch.” He took a breath. “It’s been great. We’re becoming good friends. Best friends.”

“Oh, that’s so sweet.” Mom’s face bounced on the screen as she walked around her house. “Things are progressing. Perfect. Now, that brings me to a question I have.”

“Yes?”

“We’ve had an inquiry from a potential tenant. They want to lease your unit, but not for six months. A year.”

Lachlan cracked open his soda, and fizz burst out. “Twelve months? Mmmm.”

He gulped his drink.

“So, if things don’t work out between you and Beth, and you come back in a few months, you’ll have to live with us for a while.”

“That’s not likely to happen.”

“You don’t want to live in our house?”

“Not that. Beth and I will work out. It is already.” He sat at the small dining table. “But if I lease the place for twelve months, I’ll be tied into a contract and won’t be able to sell it and buy a house here, if we get married.”

“Married?”

He chuckled. “Wasn’t that your plan, Mom? You practically arranged the marriage.”

She laughed, and excitement sounded in her voice. “What are you talking about, son?”

“The sexy blue dress. I’m ashamed to say that it worked.” He teased her.

“Oh. The Seaview restaurant date. That’s not an arranged marriage.” She scoffed.

“You practically told me to follow her to Australia and wait until she says yes.”

“Mmmm. I did say something like that, didn’t I?” She grinned. “So, you’re actually taking your mother’s advice for once.”

“That I am.”

“Good. I like Beth. She’ll make a wonderful daughter-in-law.”

He laughed. “And wife for me.”

“Yes, that too.” Mom angled her head away from sight. “Did you hear that dear, Lachlan’s going to marry Beth.”

Dad’s voice murmured something.

“When’s the wedding, Lachie?”

“Mom. We’re not officially dating. We are, but we’re not. If you know what I mean.”

“Right. Got it. Well, I want weekly updates from now on.”

He saluted. “Yes, ma’am.”

Lachlan wiped sweaty palms down the sides of his suit pants as he walked through the doors of Harbor of Hope. Winston Michaels had been vague about the reason for the unexpected meeting, but he assumed Beth’s dad had concerns about the unmistakable relationship that had developed between him and Beth. In the last two months since he’d arrived in Australia, she’d invited him to every family dinner, charity meeting or social event. They barely left each other’s sides and he didn’t mind the teasing from her sisters. He was in love—big time. No point hiding it.

He climbed wooden stairs to the mezzanine level of the industrial-style building.

The receptionist took off her glasses and stood when he rounded the corner. Her pleasant smile gave him a burst of courage. He could do this. Come what may with Beth’s father, Lachlan would validate his concerns and respect what the man had to say.

“Mr. Peters, you’re nice and early. Winston is free to see you now. Follow me.” She waved.

“Thank you.” He couldn’t place her name. It would come to him, though. While helping the volunteer team each Saturday, he learned at least ten new names a week.

The middle-aged woman clipped a brisk pace down the corridor, her bobbed chestnut hair bouncing along. He passed three offices on the left with clear doors and windows. A social worker studied his computer screen intently. Another door down, the rehab coordinator chatted on her cell using animated hand gestures. The third office was empty. Beth worked at Youth Connect on Fridays and he’d join her later. He hadn’t bothered telling her about this meeting. He wanted to see what it was all about and avoid Beth’s attempts to protect him from her dad’s interrogations. Lachlan had nothing to hide.

The compact kitchenette on the right had an old-fashioned table with a swirly pink countertop and steel edging. The receptionist halted on the next step to Winston’s office and tapped on his glass door.

She turned to Lachlan, smiled big and nodded. “Good to go.” She headed back down the corridor, humming a tune.

Beth’s father opened the door, offering a polite smile, but a hint of something else shadowed his expression. Melancholy?

Winston shook his hand clasping his free hand over Lachlan’s wrist, as always. The gesture conveyed a deeper desire to connect. “Lachlan, thank you for coming.” He pointed to a high-back leather chair. “Please, join me.”

The jittery sensation in his throat calmed as he sat and released a breath. “I like the personalized touches you’ve made to your office.” Lachlan pointed to the embossed painting of a tiger framed in antique brass.

Winston turned to the wall. “Amy painted that.”

“Wow. She’s very talented.” The tiger had a penetrating gaze. Even from Lachlan’s angle, the tiger peered into his soul. The warmth of bronze blends in its fur blew in a breeze.

“Beth’s sister went to art school before she married. She’ll return to her career once Talicia is in school.” He gave a warm chuckle. “Unless another grandchild comes along. I won’t be complaining.” Winston swiveled in his chair and faced Lachlan. “I would love her to paint a mural in the main hall. A big project, but I know she has the skill to do it.”

Lachlan nodded at the painting once more. “I agree.”

Winston threaded his fingers together. “So, you must be wondering why I called you in today?”

He squirmed in his seat. “I have some idea, I believe.”

Winston’s brows rose. “It’s not about Beth.”

Lachlan’s spine slumped and the tension eased. “Really?”

Winston gave a deep, rumbling laugh. “It’s obvious you care for my daughter. But that’s not what this meeting is about.” His smile widened. “Beth may think I’m overprotective, but it’s not my place to direct her future.” Winston’s smile dropped. “The Nick situation proved that. I did a terrible job.” He shook his head. “And that is why I wanted to ask for your help.”

Lachlan perked up. “Help?”

“Yes. I’ve done some soul searching and have concluded that I don’t have all the answers.” His booming laugh returned. “Took me to sixty-one to realize that.”

The man’s transparency refreshed Lachlan. He gave his full attention. “So, how can I help you, sir?”

“You aren’t in the Navy anymore, Lachlan. Winston is fine.” He grinned. “As a qualified counselor, I figure you know far more than I in regards to mental health.” He rubbed his weathered chin. “I admit, I face too many situations in the charity that are beyond my capacity. We refer people to services but I know many don’t follow through. It would be better if we had someone here to start them on their journey to better mental health. A step in the process since we’ve built initial trust.” He adjusted in his seat. “I’ve been narrow-minded in my approach in the past.”

“I’m sure what happened with Nick has certainly raised some questions.” He cleared his throat. “From what I’ve heard, Nick had a genuine passion to help people.” A heaviness hung in his gut. “I haven’t stopped thinking about the guy. I hope things work out for him and he gets the help he needs.”

“Me too.” Winston’s face became somber. “Unfortunately, I’m not the only charity leader in my city who’s missed the signs.” He shook his head and stared at the mahogany desk before meeting Lachlan’s eyes. “A bigger charity in Perth witnessed a tragic suicide last year.”

The wind sucked out of his chest. Speechless.

Winston rubbed the back of his neck. “The charities are close in our city. We work together often. All of us were affected by the news.” He shook his head again. “That’s not the only suicide we’ve seen of late. Three organizations run by my closest friends have gone through similar situations. It’s shocking. Devasting for the families.” He thinned his lips. “And volunteers.” A sigh came next. “They don’t handle the news well. Life altering.”

“I can only imagine.” Was all Lachlan could say at the time.

Winston intensified his gaze. “You can help us, Lachlan. Not only from your training, but your insight into what happened with Nick also shows me you could be a vital member of our community. You can assist with your understanding of the biological aspects of people.” He leaned back into his chair. “I missed the signs with Nick. I didn’t see them in time to help the man.”

“Don’t feel guilty about that. You probably haven’t seen mood elevation to that extent before.”

Winston shook his head. “Reflecting over my years of service, several faces come to my mind that I now believe had a form of mania. It’s not easy to pick up, but there’s been the occasion where something just didn’t sit right, and I avoided a confrontation. I’ve seen some odd behavior.” He gave a sad smile.

“I bet.” Lachlan folded a leg over one knee. “So how do you think I fit into the picture?”

“We have a spare office here at Harbor of Hope. For the benefit of our wider community, I’d like to have you on staff for two days a week. The other days, you are welcome to use the office to bring in other paid clients from any referrals you receive.”

Lachlan sat straighter. “Sir. I mean, Winston. That’s—just what I’m looking for. Cassie has me on one day a week at Youth Connect, and I have as many shifts as I want from the restaurant. But my heart is for counseling.” He jumped out of his chair and grabbed Winston’s hand in a firm handshake. “I accept your offer. Thank you. This is—fantastic.”

Winston stood, grinned wide, and continued to shake his hand. “Wonderful. Welcome to the team.”

Beth. She was on staff at the centre most of the week. He would be working alongside Beth. This was too good to be true. He let go of Winston’s hand. “Does Beth know about your offer?”

“No.” He smirked. “I’m sure she wouldn’t object.”

“I hope not. So, you trust me enough to work with your team, does that include . . .?” He shifted his weight to one foot.

“Like I said, Beth needs to find her own way.” He raised his palms. “I’m staying out of her love life.” His laugh lines deepened as he dropped his hands. “But, if she asked for my opinion, I would tell her to go for it.”

Lachlan grew an extra two inches. “Well, that’s good to know.” He’d like to say a lot more, or burst into song or something.

Winston stepped aside from his desk. “So, when do you want to start?

BETHANY

Bethany floated around her office, totally distracted now that lunchtime approached. Lachlan was counseling in the next room, then he’d come and take her out to lunch. She placed the manilla folder into the filing cabinet and let out a contented sigh. Life just got sweeter and sweeter.

Her mojo was back. Ideas for transforming Habor Hope into a thriving organization came with ease. Lachlan loved to brainstorm and helped her with the twelve-month strategic plan. The goal included expanding in country towns that had no homeless center.

Her mobile trilled and vibrated on her desk. Hopefully, this wouldn’t be a long call. Lachlan would knock on her door any minute now.

She swiped at the green symbol. “Hello, Bethany speaking.”

“Beth Michaels?” An older man’s voice crackled through the speaker.

“Yes, that’s me.”

“It’s Sergeant Andrews from the Fremantle police.”

Oh. What had she done? Or had someone been hurt? Her throat constricted. “How can I help you?”

“I’m giving you the heads up that the Quokka poisoning case has reopened. We have witnesses against the two directors at Pacific Master Builders.”

Blood in her veins pumped faster. She clutched at her necklace. “Really? Who’s the witness?”

“A young Caucasian male, seventeen, came forward last week. He worked on the island with his uncle who runs the general store. He said US Navy officers questioned his Uncle two years ago. The boy was hiding in the storeroom at the time, but ever since, he’s been having frequent nightmares of submarines and helicopters surrounding the island to come and arrest him.” He chuckled. “Too much Call of Duty gaming, I reckon.” Sergeant Andrews cleared his throat. “His school psychologist encouraged him to come forward with the information. Since he’s a juvenile, he will probably only get a slap on the wrist if he confesses. He’s suffered insomnia, obviously guilt-ridden that he’d assisted the developers in poisoning the Quokkas.”

“He what? How did he do that?”

“The land developers gave the boy pellets resembling a cat biscuit, which housed silicone-like balls full of plastics. They wanted it to look like waste-pollution had killed the Quokkas. He still had samples, and the lab results came back showing the same chemicals found in the carcasses.”

“Oh, how terrible. And they convinced this boy to do their dirty work? I’m glad you’ve caught them.”

“Only because you sent your American contacts to interrogate the locals.”

She gave a small laugh. “They were meant to coax the information out of people, so I don’t think they would’ve demanded anything. I guess the military uniform scared the boy. But they were touring for the day. Thank goodness they changed after talking to the general store staff and not before.”

“The boy panicked and told the directors the military were scouring the island and collecting evidence. That’s why the developers backed out. They offered to pay the teen to collect all the bait immediately. He refused the money and told them he had to do it to clear his conscience.”

“That’ll work in the boy’s favor, that he refused to take more money and showed remorse.”

“For sure. So, your boss will be very happy with you.”

Beth walked around her desk. “Ugh. About that. I’m not working for the local paper anymore.”

“Well, this is bigger than Fremantle news. I’d imagine it would be of national interest. Over four hundred and sixteen dead Quokkas is a significant number since there’s a minimal population of them. Approach the West Australian and The National .”

Her pulse quickened as she picked up a pencil. “When’s the court hearing?”

A shovel of papers sounded through the speaker. “The court case is on the thirtieth. We have enough evidence, but expect it to be a drawn out process.”

She flipped a page of her notepad. “Have you issued a press release yet?”

Lachlan appeared and tapped on the glass door.

She pointed her pencil at her phone, then waved him inside.

Sergeant Andrews continued, “Our media liaison officer is working on the statement. But I wanted to honor your work and let you know before the press release date next week. I’ll send some documents that you can forward with your submission to the papers, to validate your article.”

Lachlan crept to the corner of the room and studied her selection of books in the shelves.

“Sergeant Andrews, thank you so much.”

Lachlan swung to face her and raised his brows.

“Thank you, thank you. I’ll get onto it straight away.”

“I’ll send the email now. Good day to you, Bethany.”

“Fabulous. Bye now.”

She threw her phone and pencil onto her desk, ran and lunged herself at Lachlan like a torpedo. She swung her arms around his neck. “I love you!” And smacked a kiss on his cheek.

Lachlan stumbled back, wide eyes.

Drats. She didn’t want to be the first one to say it. “And Wally. I love you and Wally.” She bounced on her toes.

His brow furrowed. “Wally? What are you talking about?”

She squeezed his cheeks and when he grimaced, she let go. Too much.

“You’re heroes!” Beth pitter-patted her palms in front of her chest and let out a little squeal. “You and Wally scared the heck out of a teenager on the island that day. He’s had nightmares ever since and finally confessed. He played a part in poisoning the wildlife.”

Lachlan blinked.

“The Quokkas!” She grabbed his hands and swung them side to side. “And you got the name of the builders. All the information I submitted lines up with the boy’s statement.”

He let go of her hands and flashed an amused smile. “Great. So you’re going to become a big name reporter?”

She waved her hand and scoffed. “Nah. I’ll use a pen name. Especially for this. A tad dangerous. I don’t care about fame. I’m just glad they caught the men who did it. Justice has been served.” She high-fived Lachlan and he laughed.

He smiled generously. “Well, let’s have a quick celebration lunch, and get you back here so you can get onto that article.”

She plunged into Lachlan, giving him a bear hug. “Oh, you’re so wonderful and understanding.”

He hugged her back, then slid his palms down her arms, capturing her hands. A storm brewed in his intense gaze, then his delicious-looking lips curved at one side. “Wonderful and understanding. And you even said the three words.” His eyebrow twitched. “In the same sentence as the name Wally? A little disheartening, Beth.” He stepped closer.

Oh, no. Not here. She glanced at the office windows, where staff could walk past any moment. The ones that made sure no shenanigans went on in the building. The cave on Rottnest, may have been a romantic place for a first kiss. The foreshore of Fremantle—even better. Under the disco ball and before San Diego skyline views—perfect. But here? The charity office? Not romantic.

She pressed her palm to his chest. “By the look in your eyes, I’d say you’re willing to give me an exclusive interview.”

“You and me? Exclusive.” He grinned and moved closer. “I’m ready to commit.”

She flicked her gaze toward the see-through doors. “Let’s not get you fired in the first month.” She stepped back. “Time for lunch and fresh air.”

Lachlan waved his index finger. “You’ll keep, Bethany Michaels.”

She pretended he had no effect on her and skipped to her desk and collected her things as her heart did a victory dance inside. She’d won the Quokka story and the hero with it. Could her week get any better?

As she swished around, Marnie, the receptionist tapped on the glass. Phew—close call. Beth nodded for her to come in.

Marnie glanced at Lachlan as she opened the door, worry lines creased her forehead.

What had she seen? “We were on our way out for lunch.” Beth’s voice remained chirpy.

Marnie held out a handful of envelopes. “Some mail to sort through.” She flicked her gaze at Lachlan once more and dipped her head to the ground. “One addressed to you, Beth—from overseas.”

Beth’s stomach dropped. Lachlan’s tanned face whitened a shade.

Taking the mail, she pivoted and headed to her desk. “Thank you, Marnie.” She nodded her dismissal, without looking over her shoulder. Mail from overseas? Could it be—? Her breath hitched at the pile in her hand. Junk mail, junk mail, bill . . . airmail. The envelope screamed to be opened. Her hands shook as she flipped it over. No—not now.