The Lady of Tarpon Springs

by Judith Miller

  “You could let Theo go with the boat when they sail tomorrow and see what kind of harvest they bring in. If it goes well, Theo could continue with the crew. You’ll be giving them what they’ve asked for. If it doesn’t go well, then you can go with them the next time. Before they depart, tell the crew that if their harvests remain poor and they continue to withhold the truth from you, you’ll have to accompany them on future sailings.”

  “You continue to amaze me, Zanna.” He met her gaze, his lips curving in an affectionate smile. “I believe God sent you at just the right time in answer to my prayer.”

  Her eyes widened. “My answer wasn’t inspired, Nico. I simply weighed the possibilities of what might happen if you did or didn’t assign Theo to the position.”

  He grasped her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Perhaps that’s true, but I believe God was at work when He sent you here this morning.” He lifted her hand and pressed a kiss to her fingers. “Thank you.”

  The following morning, Zanna stood by Nico’s side while the men prepared to sail. Throughout the night, she’d dissected the advice she gave Nico. She wanted to believe it had been God’s will for her to speak to him, but she wasn’t as certain. Still, if she’d been willing to break her promise to Viola, she would have told him that Mr. Pappas might have several dogs in this fight. Had her promise to keep Viola’s disclosure secret been a mistake?

  While she believed her advice to be sound and that Theo should dive, the fact that Mr. Pappas had provided the same advice gave her pause. She now questioned everything the man had ever said. Had he been attempting to raise funds and buy out Lucy even before he returned to Tarpon Springs? Viola thought he’d stayed away because he owed Bessie money, but now Zanna wasn’t sure. Lucy would have taken a huge loss on the business if she could have sold it to him before that first harvest. Truth be told, she was still willing to rid herself of it. The thought nagged like an itch that needed to be scratched.

  “Nico!”

  Zanna shaded her eyes and caught sight of Mr. Pappas waving his hat and hurrying toward them. “Why is he here? The sale isn’t until Friday.”

  Nico shrugged and waved at the white-suited figure. “I don’t know. Maybe he had some other business.” He grinned. “Maybe he’s in love with one of those Rochester sisters.”

  Zanna gritted her teeth. “I don’t think so. More likely he’s come to see if you’re following his advice.”

  Nico frowned at her. “Who can blame him for that?”

  Zanna didn’t like that Mr. Pappas was becoming more and more interested in the business—not just their day-to-day activities but the overall success of the company. Before she knew it, he’d secure funding and make Lucy an offer for the business. While Zanna knew it unfair to pass judgment on Mr. Pappas, something smelled fishy—and it wasn’t today’s catch.

  “I’m glad I got here before the men sailed.” Mr. Pappas gestured toward the boats.

  His smile faded when Zanna leaned forward and pinned him with a hard stare. “Why was your arrival of such importance, Mr. Pappas? Our boats can sail whether you’re in Tarpon Springs or not.”

  “Well, I wanted . . . I mean, Nico and I had discussed . . .” His words died on the wind as he directed an expectant look at Nico.

  “I’m sure he was interested in knowing whether I was going to sail with the Anastasi or if I would be at the Exchange for Friday’s bidding.”

  Mr. Pappas bobbed his head at Nico. “Exactly. I was hoping you’d remain in town.”

  Zanna frowned. “And why is that, Mr. Pappas?” Irritation soured her tone.

  He cleared his throat. “There were a few things I wanted to discuss with Nico. Nothing that would interest you, Miss Krykos.”

  She looped her hand into the crook of Nico’s arm. “Anything that interests Nico is of interest to me, Mr. Pappas, but right now neither of us has time to visit with you. As you can see, we’re preparing for the departure of our boats.”

  He gave a slight nod before returning his hat to his head. “Good day, then, Miss Krykos. And, Nico, I’ll talk to you later. I’m pleased to see you took my advice.” That said, he turned on his heel and marched off.

  Zanna squeezed Nico’s arm. “If he comes to talk and it’s about the business, I’d like to know what he has to say.”

  Nico smiled down at her. “He’s likely more interested in gaining a look at the sponges before the other buyers than talking to me about anything that would interest you.” He didn’t give her an opportunity to respond before pulling from her grasp to untie one of the mooring lines. He glanced over his shoulder. “The boats are casting off and I need to help. We can talk another time.”

  Zanna forced a smile. “I’ll be in my office.” She offered a quick wave to Nico and the departing crew, although Nico was the only one to return her gesture. “They’ll never accept me,” she muttered before turning away.

  But right now, that was the least of her problems.

  Mr. Pappas sat down in the chair that Zanna had occupied a few hours earlier. “I don’t think your young lady likes me very much.”

  “She is cautious and dedicated to making this business a success for Dr. Penrose.” Nico did his best to avoid giving a direct answer, but Zanna’s abrupt comments to the older man hadn’t left him with much wiggle room.

  “You are very diplomatic, Nico.”

  “I’m not sure what that means.”

  The older man chuckled. “It doesn’t matter. First, I wanted to tell you again that I am heartened you took my advice.” He patted his palm to his chest. “It’s good to know that you trusted my counsel and understand it is my desire to help you and your men succeed in this new business venture.”

  “Thank you. I appreciate all you’ve done to make us feel at home in this new country.”

  Mr. Pappas removed a cigar from his jacket pocket. “Think nothing of it. Having the opportunity to spend time with you and the men has been a pleasure for me. Especially the music making.” He grinned and rolled the cigar between his palms. “I have some exciting news, but I’d like you to keep it between the two of us until I am certain it’s going to work out.”

  Nico’s stomach clenched. He didn’t want to keep secrets—not from Zanna, not from Dr. Penrose, and not from his men. “I’m not fond of secrets. Perhaps you shouldn’t tell me until the news can be shared with others.”

  “I trust you to keep a secret for a short time. Anyway, I can’t move forward with this unless you’re interested in the idea.” He didn’t wait for Nico to object before he plunged forward. “I have several investors who are willing to put up a large sum of money toward purchasing additional boats and equipment. They want you to manage the operation.”

  Nico lifted his chin. “I couldn’t possibly take such a position. It wouldn’t be fair to Dr. Penrose. Working in two positions would create a conflict.”

  Pappas tapped the tip of his cigar on the desk. “If you’re to become a success, you may need to set aside some of your high-minded principles. There are ways around most everything. Legal ways. I’m sure your lawyer lady friend knows all about finding ways in and out of such situations.”

  “Zanna would never agree to such an arrangement. Don’t you see the problems that would arise in such a venture? Look at what has happened with the three boats I now oversee. Two are doing much better than the third. Even though it’s untrue, one could argue I’m forcing the captain to take the Anastasi to poor sponge beds. Think what would happen if the boats were owned by different companies, with myself as manager of both.” He shook his head. “No, it would never work. Besides, I would not be a part of creating competition for the doctor. I want her business to succeed.”

  Mr. Pappas crossed his arms over his chest. “Would you rather someone else come in and manage the competition?”

  Nico shrugged. “I am not going to worry about such a thing. First you need to have enough money. Then you would need to go through the same process as Mr. Penrose. Our arrangements took almost
two years, and he had the funds. In two years, this business will be established and I’ll be able to withstand any competition that comes into Tarpon Springs.”

  “I think you’re making a mistake, Nico.”

  “Who can say for sure? Not me, but I do know I cannot accept your offer. If you have interested investors, why not buy out Dr. Penrose? She may still be willing to sell. Wouldn’t that be the best option for you and your investors?”

  “I’ll pass along your suggestion, but I doubt they’ll be interested. These are men who enjoy competition.”

  Nico arched his brows. “More than making money?”

  “When you’re already wealthy, it’s competition rather than money that feeds the soul.”

  Nico shook his head. “Then they need to look elsewhere. I would never be a good fit for such business partners.”

  CHAPTER

  21

  As had become his custom, Nico stood on the dock awaiting the return of the boats. The crew had been out seven days, and he was eager to discover how they had fared. Before their departure, Nico had argued against a longer time in the Gulf. With a new diver on the Anastasi, he didn’t want the boats out for too long. He had acquiesced and assigned Theo to Felix’s diving position, but he’d refused the men’s request to remain at sea for fourteen days. He wanted to be certain Theo could handle the diving position, and he wanted assurance the captain and crew of the Anastasi had followed his orders.

  Against the objections of the captain and Markos, Nico had insisted the Anastasi remain within sight of the Crete or St. Nicolas while in the Gulf. He’d given the captain a choice, yet he didn’t want the Anastasi off on her own this time—partially because this was the first time Theo would dive with this crew, and partially because the sponge beds would be similar for both boats.

  The captain of the Anastasi had chosen to remain within sighting distance of the Crete. Nico hoped the captain had made that decision because the vessels were both second-class boats with the same number of divers and crew members, and not because the two captains were close friends. The wives of the two captains were related, and there was a family bond as well as a friendship between the men. Neither of them was friendly with the captain of the St. Nicolas. Nico thought they might harbor a tinge of jealousy since the St. Nicolas was a first-class boat. In Greece, the captain of a first-class boat commanded greater respect, although Nico doubted anyone in Tarpon Springs was aware of such a distinction.

  He’d been on the dock only a short time when Zanna and Lucy approached. He waved in greeting and hoped the doctor’s appearance didn’t signify Felix’s condition had worsened.

  “I was certain I’d find you here.” Zanna’s cheerful smile encouraged him.

  “My favorite position when the boats are due to return.” He tipped his cap to the ladies, then directed his attention to Lucy. “I hope your appearance is only because you are curious about your sponging business and not due to any worsening in Felix’s condition.”

  “Felix is doing a little better than I’d expected. All things considered, he’s very fortunate.” She glanced at Zanna. “Zanna stopped by my office and said she was on her way to the docks, so I decided to come along. I believe Felix could return to the camp, but he’ll need someone to assist him. Although he wanted to try it on his own, I was against that idea. I pointed out he might stumble or fall and that could cause further difficulty with his recovery. He was unhappy with my decision, yet he agreed to wait until someone could come and aid him.”

  “Of course. I’m pleased for the good report. Once the boats have arrived and are unloaded, I’ll send Markos to fetch Felix. They’re good friends.”

  “No need to do that. I’m more than willing to lend a hand.”

  All three of them turned to see Mr. Pappas standing behind them on the dock. But it was Zanna who frowned and took a step in his direction. “You certainly make a silent approach.”

  His smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. Nico was certain Zanna’s words had struck a chord with the older man. Nico moved to her side and lightly grasped her arm. He’d prefer she say nothing more right now. An argument would serve no purpose, and the boats would soon arrive. Yet he, too, wondered at the sudden appearance of the older man. Of late, Mr. Pappas was in Tarpon Springs far more often than in the past, perhaps because he was gathering more information for his investors.

  Nico met the older man’s gaze. “Did you speak with Dr. Penrose about your investors?”

  Mr. Pappas gave a dismissive wave. “They’ve rejected the idea of investing in the sponging business, so there’s no need to trouble the doctor with details of our discussion.”

  Nico pushed his cap to the back of his head. “So soon? Even before asking for a selling price?” He shook his head. “They’re going to miss a good opportunity. If she decides to sell later, I’m sure the price will go much higher.”

  Mr. Pappas shrugged. “What can I say? These wealthy men are quickly distracted by every opportunity that comes their way. Yesterday it was sponges; today it’s something else.”

  Lucy tugged on Zanna’s sleeve. “What are they talking about? I heard Nico mention my name, but then he and Mr. Pappas started speaking in Greek, even though Nico’s English is much improved. I don’t think they want me to understand what they’re saying.”

  “I’ll tell you later. It’s not important.” Zanna turned toward the water. “Look! The boats are in sight.”

  “I hope the report of this harvest will be as good as the news you gave me about Felix.” Nico looked at Mr. Pappas. “If you want to assist Felix from the doctor’s office down to the camp, I’m sure he’d be thankful. Otherwise I’ll have Markos help him after the boats return.”

  “Of course,” Mr. Pappas said. “We fellow countrymen need to stick together and help one another whenever we can.” He withdrew a cigar from his jacket. “I’ll be back a little later. I’m curious to see if the Anastasi had a successful harvest.”

  Lucy nudged Zanna as the older man departed. “He certainly has an interest in the business. Maybe he’ll soon gain the necessary financing to purchase the company.”

  A short time later, Nico caught the line one of the crew members of the Anastasi tossed to him on the dock. From the smiles and cheers, he wanted to believe it had been a successful journey. Still, he hesitated to celebrate just yet.

  When he caught the attention of the captain, Nico cupped his hands to his mouth. “Do you have a good report for me?”

  The captain bobbed his head up and down. “You will be very pleased!” His shouted response was music to Nico’s ears.

  He glanced at Zanna. “Finally. A good report.”

  Lucy smiled when Zanna repeated the news. “In that case, I believe I’ll go back to my office. Even if I don’t have any patients waiting, there’s always something that requires my attention.”

  Zanna chuckled. “Watch out for the Rochester sisters. I’m sure they’ll whisk you away to some committee meeting if they see you out and about.”

  “No doubt you’re right about that.” Lucy waved and bid them both farewell before she hurried off.

  While the crew tied off the boat, Nico stood by Zanna’s side. “I’m most thankful for the good news, but the Anastasi’s success does raise some questions.”

  “I thought the same thing,” Zanna said. “Do you think Felix might have been the cause of the problem? Perhaps his diving abilities aren’t as good as they used to be. I doubt Markos and the other men would have wanted to tell you that.”

  “Possibly, but I myself trained Felix several years ago. He’s been diving longer than some of the other men. Then again, he may have suffered some injuries he’s hiding from me. If that’s the case, his success would be more limited. Rather than cause problems for the entire crew, I’d like to think he would speak up if he’d been suffering from some physical problem before that last dive.” Nico hiked a shoulder. “Instead of a problem with Felix, I wondered if my order to remain near the Crete was the reason
they were successful on this voyage.”

  “Ah, but who can say for sure?” Once again Mr. Pappas appeared behind them without a sound. “You worry too much, Nico. Just be thankful your boats have all three come in with a good harvest.”

  Nico gave the older man a dismissive wave and headed toward the other boats. “I am paid to worry. Making this business a success is why I am here.” He turned to Zanna. “I’ll see you later. Your mother has invited me to supper this evening.” He saw the surprise register in her eyes and grinned. Apparently, Mrs. Krykos hadn’t mentioned the invitation to her daughter.

  She tipped her head and met his eyes. Her brow furrowed ever so slightly as though she thought perhaps he was joking with her. When he said nothing further, she gave a nod. “Yes, of course. I’ll see you at supper.” She lifted her hand in a quick wave and strode off.

  As Nico neared the St. Nicolas, he glanced over his shoulder to see if Mr. Pappas had followed him, but the man was deep in conversation with Markos. Odd. If Mr. Pappas was going to form a friendship with one of the men, wouldn’t he prefer one of the captains who was more his own age? Nico stared at the two men. They stood with their heads close together and furtively glanced around when anyone drew near. Perhaps the investors Mr. Pappas had spoken of hadn’t backed out after all. Maybe the older man thought Markos could take charge of the new operation his investors had wanted to form. Nico exhaled a long breath. Were Zanna’s suspicions wearing off on him? Maybe Mr. Pappas simply wanted Markos to know Felix was doing well and could return to the campsite.

  Nico pushed thoughts of Mr. Pappas from his mind and headed toward the St. Nicolas. He took bundle after bundle of sponges from the men, hefting them onto the dock. Sweat trickled between his shoulder blades. He’d need to wash up before supper.