"That's our next stop," Daniel decided.
Greta stopped Marta before she followed."Is this woman dangerous?"Over the years, Greta had taken all the trainers under her wing, helping them settle into island life.She was a sounding board when they couldn't speak with each other about their problems.Riley was the same age as Greta's daughter, who was studying abroad, and she always held a special place in Greta's heart.
Marta hesitated."I don't know, but she's upset Riley, and Gray's shaken.We'll keep you updated."
"Oh my, and those two have been really falling for each other.I hope you get this sorted out soon.And, Marta, you keep me in the loop and I will start sleuthing out some more information for you.Oh, and tell Daniel you love him one day soon, okay?"
At this, Marta's cheeks burned thinking of their many chats about her feelings for Daniel that she couldn't share with Riley and Cici.As she turned to leave, Greta reached out and pulled her into a hug.
"You know he'll love you back; take the leap!"
Chapter 57
Baggage
Shelleystrodebrisklyawayfrom the Square, heading for the dive booth where she'd stashed her luggage and gear that morning.She needed to convince Gray to let her stay.From her earlier chat with the divers, she'd learned the staff housing he occupied wasn't far.
Before stepping into the air-conditioned booth, she smoothed her hair and adjusted her blouse, then walked in with a confident smile.
"Hey, it's you again!Shelley, right?"The tall man behind the counter beamed at her, exuding friendliness.A welcome contrast to the icy reception she'd endured earlier.
"Well, look at you!What a memory!"she purred, leaning on the counter."And you're Malcolm!"
He chuckled, clearly flattered."Got it in one!Did you make it to the Lagoon okay?Bet Gray was surprised to see you!"
When Shelley had come in that morning lugging all her gear and luggage, he'd felt bad.It looked way too heavy for one person to be dragging around.Then when she said Gray was her coworker, and she was helping him with his project, Malcolm had been happy to store her stuff.He sent her to the Conch Shack to find Dustin to give her a ride to the Lagoon.It had worked out brilliantly, and now she needed one more favour.
"Oh, he was definitely surprised," she replied with a steady smile."He's such a sweetheart.He's even setting up a welcome dinner at the fish and chips place.Sent me here to grab my luggage and take it to his place before we meet up."
"Really?"
"He said you'd help me out," she continued smoothly."His exact words were, 'Malcolm is the best; he'll get you sorted.'Said you've got a key and everything.He's helping close the facility for the night; you know, get those dolphins to bed."
Malcolm nodded eagerly.Any friend of Gray's, and by extension Riley's, was a friend of his.He had loved helping with the underwater camera project to add to Gray's data collection.It had made him admire Gray's dedication; he'd go out of his way to support the team.
"Of course!I'll grab a dive trolley, and we'll get you sorted."
"You're a lifesaver."
Malcolm disappeared through the swinging doors to fetch the trolley, and Shelley allowed herself a small, satisfied smile.Perfect timing indeed.
Chapter 58
Conch shack
DanielarrivedattheConch Shack before Marta, which was odd since she'd been right behind him.She probably got caught up chatting with Greta; those two could talk for hours.Not that he blamed her.Greta had a knack for making everyone feel at ease, meeting them exactly where they were.She'd been like an aunt to him, and he didn't know but she always got confessions out of even the most tight - lipped people, like himself.
He took a breath, knowing he'd need to play it cool to get any information.The regulars here were a tight-knit group, and loose lips didn't come easy in this crowd, and he didn't want anyone to think there was trouble brewing.
"Hey, Daniel!What brings you here during the day?Skivvying off work, my brother?"Johnny's booming laugh filled the room, drawing smiles from the other patrons.
Daniel grinned and clapped his hands together."Hey, Johnny!You know me—I don't leave work.Except today, I left!"He slapped his knee, drawing a round of chuckles from the bar.
"I have a request, though, if I may?"Daniel added.Years in the restaurant industry had taught him that a polite preamble would open doors, even with the toughest characters.
"Shoot, man!What've you got for me today?"Johnny leaned forward; his easygoing demeanour as familiar as the sea breeze outside.Daniel couldn't help but appreciate him.Johnny had helped him find his first apartment when he got the training job, and he'd been a steadfast friend ever since.
"Well, we--" Daniel started, as Marta walked in."--were--".
