Maui Murders

by Kathy Callahan

  * * *

  “Fredrico, my baby,” chimed Fiona, arms extended to hug her son as he came to the luggage carousel.

  “Mom, please, it’s Fred,” said the tall young man who had his mother’s coloring and Italian nose and his father’s build.

  “You’ll always be my Fredrico, my firstborn baby,” Fiona said, hugging him fiercely.

  Fred looked over his mother’s shoulder at his father and rolled his eyes. Ned shook his head, holding up his hands in recognition of Fiona’s exuberance.

  “We are so happy you were able to come to the opening ceremonies. Mrs. Okamoto would be pleased to know you are honoring her.”

  “Mom, there is one bad thing I have to tell you that I know will be upsetting, but I’m leaving to go back to the mainland right after the ceremony. I’m catching the late-afternoon flight out of Maui. I have a big test on Tuesday, and I have to do some heavy studying.”

  “Oh, Fredrico, I was so hoping for a longer visit, but your father and I are happy you are here with us these few days,” said Fiona, hugging him once again.

  “Son, we are always glad to see you, no matter for how short a time. We wish your brother could have joined you, but we understand the demands of medical school,” said Ned, giving his son a firm grip on the shoulder.

  The three members of the Keller family left the airport for Paia. Fiona prepared a large Italian dinner for her family. After dinner, she insisted they go to Bird’s so she could introduce her feathered friend to Fredrico. Fred asked his dad if his mom was getting weird as she got older. Ned told him she was the same as ever but that he was getting older and noticing her behavior more. Ned assured him it was part of her charm.

  Dewey and Layla were Kyle and Kim’s guests for dinner at Mama’s.

  Mr. Soo enjoyed a macaroni-and-cheese casserole Layla had brought over the day before.

  Annie and George had a meal of leftovers from previous evenings.

  CHAPTER 87

  Mr. Soo and Fred were walking up the hill for lunch at Otis’s. “The Visitors Center is a wonderful memorial to the Okamotos, don’t you think?”

  “Yes, sir, this is a terrific transformation, although I miss that old market. I spent many afternoons mopping the floor for Mrs. Okamoto, and she would make sure I left with soda, chips, and anything else I wanted. I always felt she missed Kim, who was away at college, and took me under her wing. I miss that lady.”

  “They were good people. This center continues their legacy of giving to the community.”

  “Mr. Soo, you have a wonderful way with words.”

  “Thank you, Fred, that is most kind of you. Right now, I need one of Otis’s cheeseburgers, fries, and chocolate malt. How does that sound to you?”

  “Make that onion rings instead of fries, and we’re on the same page!”

  Later that afternoon, Fred announced he didn’t know how he was going to be able to eat any dinner tonight. “Old Otis sure can cook.”

  “Too much fried food is very bad for your health,” warned Fiona.

  “Mom, I just had lunch with Mr. Soo, who matched me bite for bite, and he must be pushing one hundred.”

  “Nonsense, I think he’s only in his early nineties.”

  “Oh well, that makes all the difference,” said Fred, laughing.

  Fiona made sure she introduced Fredrico to everyone, and he made sure he asked everyone to call him Fred.

  “Fiona, I didn’t know your son was joining us for the opening,” said the sheriff, visibly taken back at the sight of Fred.

  “Yes, Sheriff, Fredrico wanted to pay tribute to the Okamotos. He practically lived there after school until one of us returned home. He and Mrs. Okamoto became quite close.”

  “When I went off to college, Mom latched on to Fred, and he became like a son to her,” said Kim. “At first, I was jealous, but I realized Mom needed to fuss over someone, and I think Fred enjoyed being around Mom.”

  “I did. Both your parents told wonderful stories about their early lives in Japan and coming to Hawaii, meeting each other, and getting married. They were so proud of you, Kim. She would read me excerpts from every letter you wrote and tell me about every phone call you made to them. Your success reflected well on their years of hard work.”

  “Thank you, Fred, and I know they would be just as proud of your college success. Going for your MBA in business is very honorable. Ned tells me you plan on joining the Keller Real Estate firm on Oahu once you’ve graduated.”

  “The Keller name in real estate is well respected, and I want to see that legacy continued.”

  “We are very proud of Fred. With his business background and insight he’s gained working summers in the Oahu office, he will do the name proud,” beamed Ned.

  “Both my babies will make us proud. Our youngest plans on being a GP and living in the Midwest although God only knows why,” Fiona said.

  “Mom, he grew up on the islands, is going to school in Los Angeles, and he’s always dreamed of living where there are four seasons. He’s told us that for years.”

  “I know, I just thought he was bluffing. Can you imagine wanting to live in snow?”

  “Yes, I can, and it’s quite beautiful,” said the sheriff.

  “That’s right, I forgot you lived in Alaska. But the cold, brr. I remember skiing in the Italian Alps and I just couldn’t get warm. No matter how many clothes I packed on or how close I sat to the fire. Here in Hawaii, I’m always warm and toasty,” Fiona said, smiling.

  “I admit, I did thaw out after I’d been here a couple of weeks,” said the sheriff, laughing.

  George grilled fish served with Annie’s mango salsa; she also served white rice with peas, salad, and dessert of fresh berries with whipped cream. It was a light fare because Dewey was doing steaks tomorrow night and wanted everyone ready for a big meal.

  Later, George was helping Annie clean up in the kitchen. “I still can’t get over what a great kid Fred is.”

  “He has his mother’s Italian looks but enjoys his father’s gentle personality. I was amazed at how Fiona fussed over her Fredrico. I never thought she would be that type of mother. I believe I spent most of the evening suppressing a smile.”

  “She was a hoot, wasn’t she? Ned said since becoming semiretired, Fiona has come to appreciate what great children they raised. They were never in any trouble, always good students, and both set high goals.”

  “Sounds like our kids, too. Except for our daughter, I worry how they’re raising our grandchildren. They are way too lenient with them, not teaching them about consequences and responsibility.”

  “I agree. Do you think it would help if one of us talked to them?”

  “I’ve already tried, only to hear how old-fashioned our thinking is.”

  “They actually said that to you?”

  “Yes, and it hurt too.”

  George walked over to Annie as she slammed the dishwasher door and started the machine. He put his arms around her and drew her close, knowing a statement like that would hurt her deeply.

  “You smell like mango salsa. That’s sort of sexy.”

  “You find the smell of mango salsa sexy?”

  “No, I find you sexy, and at the moment, you have a hint of mango salsa about you. Maybe it’s here on your lips,” George said as he kissed her lightly on the lips. “Maybe on the neck,” he said, kissing her neck. “I think I’m going to have to do a lot more exploring to find out the exact location of that mango salsa.”

  * * *

  As habit, the sheriff escorted Mr. Soo home.

  “We are being blessed with some excellent meals, Sheriff.”

  “We are indeed, Mr. Soo.”

  “Are you ready for the opening day ceremonies?”

  “As ready as can be. Hopefully, we have thought of every contingency. Sometimes things come up that no one ev
er planned. If that happens, we can only hope we do our best. I was surprised to meet Fiona’s son. I didn’t realize he would be flying in for the opening.”

  “He and Mrs. Okamoto were close. Like Kim said, she needed someone to fuss over when he went off to college.”

  “Looks like we will be enjoying another fine meal tomorrow evening. Some more of Dewey’s big steaks. I’m looking forward to that.”

  “I believe steak is all he has learned to grill. He’ll have to do more experimenting.”

  “I’ll leave you off here, Mr. Soo. See you tomorrow evening.”

  The sheriff made sure Mr. Soo got safely into his home, then walked to the side of the Boones’ home where he left his car and drove home.

  * * *

  “A fun evening,” Layla said to Dewey as they lay in bed, “not to mention an excellent meal. They were smart to serve a light meal. We’ll be doing steaks, grilling corn on the cob, and I’ll do a salad and maybe a vegetable too. Still haven’t figured out dessert yet.”

  “Let’s do banana splits like Byrd made for us. Everyone love that.”

  “That’s perfect and fun too.”

  “Speaking of fun, there’s something about having your ex here that is very arousing,” Dewey said, caressing Layla’s hip.

  “I don’t think we need an excuse, but it does add a little excitement,” Layla said, throwing her leg over Dewey and drawing his lips to hers.

  CHAPTER 88

  By the time their guests started arriving, Dewey had the corn on the grill and the steaks spiced and in the refrigerator. Chips, veggies, and several dips were on the table, and a pitcher of Mai Tais was ready along with a cooler of beer.

  Kyle, Kim, and Mr. Soo sat at the table, discussing the Okamotos. When the Kellers got there, Fred joined them to add his memories to the conversation.

  “A Mai Tai is a delightful idea, perfect for the evening. I’m so excited about tomorrow. It seems we’ve been working up to this day for such a long time. I’ll be glad when it’s here.”

  George and Annie were coming up the stairs when they heard Fiona’s comment. “We agree with you, Fiona. Annie and I have enjoyed working with the docents and will continue our involvement, but once things are up and running, a great deal of tension will be gone.”

  “I hope Donnie starts eating again. I noticed the other day, he’s getting way too thin,” Ned said in a whisper so Kim wouldn’t hear.

  “I’m sure he will be relieved once everything gets going. He’s done an outstanding job for the center and for Paia,” said George.

  “Evening, folks. I hope I’m not late,” said the sheriff coming up the stairs.

  “Sheriff, you are just in time for a cold one. There are goodies on the table. Help yourself.”

  “I can use a cold beer, thanks.”

  The conversation was lively, with memories being shared and discussed.

  “It’s time to grill the steaks. Layla, go ahead and begin roasting vegetables.”

  Dewey got everyone’s steak order, and then he and George began grilling. Layla put two trays of vegetables in the oven for roasting and last-minute items in her salad, then tossed it with honey mustard dressing. She refreshed the pitcher of Mai Tais and refilled glasses. Ned handed out fresh beers.

  Dewey placed the roasting ears of corn on a rack above the grill; when the steaks were about ready, he and George placed them on a large platter. The steaks began to come off the grill; the ladies brought out grilled vegetables and salad as everyone started eating.

  * * *

  “Dewey, Layla, thank you for an excellent meal. Since I’ve been back in Paia, I’ve eaten better than I’ve eaten for months. Makes it hard to leave and go back to school.”

  “I’m going to have to start back on my daily jogging routine,” declared Fiona. “I know I’ve gained weight these last few days. My waistbands are tight, and my bra is killing me.”

  “Mom!”

  Ned grinned. “No complaints from me.”

  “Like you, Fiona, I will have to get back to my regular jogging routine. George, I suppose you haven’t gained an ounce?”

  “Nope, I might have lost a few ounces doing all this chewing,” he said, trying to be serious.

  “I’m pleased to have been invited to all these wonderful meals. Makes me feel like you folks approve of my work,” said the sheriff.

  “Indeed, Sheriff,” said Mr. Soo. “On my walks through the city, the merchants are so pleased your presence has rid the area of many of the hooligans that put a bad mark on Paia.”

  “I’ve always believed hooligans had no business in any city I was in charge of,” the sheriff said, smiling fondly at Mr. Soo.

  “I noticed a difference in the town, Sheriff,” said Kim. “I don’t see those gangs trying to sell illegally grown pot to the tourists. That had been a plague on our city for many years.”

  “With concentrated effort from Danny and me, it took us about three months for word to get out Paia would not tolerate the selling of illegal Maui Wowee anymore. We made arrests every day, and finally, the message was loud and clear. Glad to see it’s still working.”

  Layla and Dewey took the dishes inside and brought a couple pots of coffee and cups. Dewey carried bananas, various toppings, whipped cream, and a tray with three types of ice cream.

  “We had fun at Bird’s making banana splits, so we thought we could try it again tonight.”

  “Cool,” said Fred.

  “Annie, we’ll have to jog morning and evening. Pass the strawberry, please,” said Fiona.

  “This is such a lovely evening. Thanks to all of you for making it so memorable, and the food is the best. I haven’t had a banana split in years,” said Kyle.

  “I must observe you, Fred, as you make your split. I’ve never had one of these before,” admitted Mr. Soo.

  “You are in for a real treat, Mr. Soo. Follow my lead. I guarantee it won’t be your last.”

  After dessert, everyone had coffee, and several moans were heard around the table.

  “I might have overeaten,” said Fiona. “I have the beginnings of a stomachache.”

  “Undo the button on your shorts,” suggested Ned.

  Fiona followed Ned’s suggestion. “Ah, much better. My god, I look pregnant. Look at my pouch, Ned. Why did you let me eat that much?”

  “I always thought you looked exceptionally beautiful when you were pregnant, darling,” Ned said, sliding over, hugging Fiona.

  “Pregnant is one thing, downright fat is another,” said Fiona, looking at her stomach.

  “Monday morning, Fiona, we start a daily jogging regime until we get to our proper weight, agreed?”

  “Agreed, Annie. It will help with two of us going together.”

  “Guess I’ll have to play two games of golf a day for a while,” said Ned, receiving a frown from Fiona.

  “Our rounds at the hospital keep the weight off Kim and me,” said Kyle. “We probably should exercise, but after the long days we put in, exercise is just more work.”

  “Mr. Soo and I run into each other walking through Paia. I believe that helps to keep our weight down,” said the sheriff.

  “Oh yes, walking throughout the city is a very pleasant way to keep one’s weight off and to keep abreast of all that is going on in Paia. Right now, everyone is focused on the opening ceremonies for the Visitors Center. Once that has occurred, I wonder what everyone will be talking about.”

  “I’m sure something will replace it. Always does in a small community,” said the sheriff. “Tomorrow is a big day, folks. Let me thank you, Dewey and Layla, for a memorable evening and a delicious meal, but I will be going now.”

  “Sheriff, I will let you escort me safely home, and I too will be retiring. Must let this lovely meal digest. Fred, thank you so much for the banana split instructions. I will be able to make th
em at home for myself. Thank you, all, for the wonderful evening. I’ll see all of you tomorrow. Dewey, don’t forget to come and get me. I’ll walk up with everyone.”

  “I would never forget you, Mr. Soo. Sheriff, thank you for coming and good luck with your Scouts tomorrow.”

  The sheriff and Mr. Soo left. Fiona, Ned, and Fred also thanked everyone and said they would meet everyone at the center because Fiona was going early to make sure her crafters were properly set up.

  “Do you and George have to get there early for the docents, Annie?”

  “No, they have their assignments and are eager to get going. We’ll leave them on their own. Let them know we have faith in them.”

  “We’ll stop by and get you. We’ll walk up together,” said Layla.

  “That will be nice. Kim, are you ready with your speech?”

  “I’ll say he is, Annie. He’s practiced it on me for a couple of weeks now,” said Kyle, smiling fondly at Kim.

  “Good for you, Kim. I know how much it means to you to honor your parents,” said George.

  “This is will be a very important moment for me to tell all of Paia how much my wonderful parents sacrificed for me and how honored they would be to have the Visitors Center in their market and named after them.”

  Annie and George said their good nights and headed on home. Walking back, Annie said, “George, you’re going to have to take another shower. You smell like charcoal.”

  “Yep, figured I would. The way the wind was whipping around, I kept being in the way of the smoke. Don’t want my lovely wife sleeping next to Smoky the Bear all night. You doing OK, honey?”

  “I’m trying to, but I’m anxious. I had a semi–panic attack this afternoon. I got that awful anxiety feeling I get before something bad happens. Probably just a case of nerves, worrying about tomorrow. I’m so grateful you’re giving the speech instead of me.”

  “Glad to do it. Anything else I can do to make it easier for you?”

  “No, sweetheart. I’ll get through this. I’ll be fine.”