Moonlight Beach

by Tammy L Grace

  The sound of a mug scraping against the counter jarred her from her thoughts. Mel was brewing tea. Lily finished up her notes she kept on a paper calendar and joined her in the kitchen.

  “How’s studying going?”

  Mel shrugged as she poured water over the tea bags. “Not bad.” As she waited for the tea to brew, she added, “I think I’d like to go see that doctor on Friday.”

  6

  Between chores and homework on Wednesday, Lily broached the prospect of going to Mac’s on Sunday. Mel’s eyes brightened at the mention of dinner and a visit with Mac’s llamas, Margo and Coco. “He tells me he’s considering adding some alpacas soon.”

  That bit of news brought a grin to Mel’s face. “They are so cute. I don’t know much about them, but will research them next week when I get back to the library.” Lily let out a breath at the enthusiasm in Mel’s voice and her eagerness to learn. She was happiest with her nose in a book or immersed in research at the library. It was a good sign.

  After lunch, Lily gathered Bodie’s leash and hollered out to Mel that she was on her way out to the training facility. Minutes later, Mel came bounding up the stairs with her new backpack they had picked up in town. “Uh, I thought I’d go with you, if that’s okay?”

  Surprised, but remembering Mel’s obsession with locking the door yesterday, she said, “Sure, you’ll have to sit in the waiting room or outside, since they don’t like any distractions for the pups at this point, but you’re welcome to come with us. Everything locked up downstairs?”

  Mel smiled and nodded her head. “Can Fritz come? I hate to leave him on his own. I can walk him and wait outside with him.”

  Lily could swear Fritz winked at the girl. “Why not? We’ll all go. Let’s get a move on.”

  There was a large fenced exercise area behind the training building and Lily left Mel in Fritz’s capable hands, while she and Bodie attended their session. The training went well, with Bodie having mastered the commands and they were given some new homework. As Lily gathered Bodie’s sweet face in her hands, she wasn’t sure how she would ever be able to let him go next year, when he would have to move on to more advanced training. The silver lining was she would be able to see him all the time once he graduated, since he was being paired with Andy.

  She had first met him when she had called the handyman in her uncle’s notebook and Andy and his dad, Wade, showed up. They had been doing work around the cottages for years and meeting Andy and learning he had lost his hearing as a teenager opened her heart to the idea of helping train Bodie to be a hearing assistant dog. Andy loved Bodie and Fritz and Lily knew when Bodie was fully trained, he would change Andy’s life.

  Soon after they got home, Mel returned to her homework, and the dogs stretched out on the deck for a nap. Lily had just finished brewing a pitcher of iced tea when the doorbell rang. Andy had been on her mind and now he stood at her front door. She welcomed him inside, motioning him to the deck.

  She put some leftover pastries on a plate and delivered them along with glasses of iced tea, to the table outside, where Andy leaned over his chair, giving both dogs thorough belly rubs. The sheer joy on his face when he interacted with Bodie was all she needed to see to know she was doing the right thing in being a puppy trainer for the hearing dog program.

  She hadn’t seen Andy in a few weeks and her minimal signing skills were rusty. Andy knew she had made a trip back east and asked her about it and Kevin. She highlighted a few things and made a point of not mentioning Mel’s ordeal. “Kevin likes his classes and is looking forward to coming here for Thanksgiving and then he’ll be here almost a month for the holiday break.”

  He signed back to her indicating her happy smile when she spoke of her son. “How is Mel doing?” he asked, in his quiet voice.

  “She’s busy with her homework, with classes starting. She’s an eager student and I’m sure she’ll do well.” Lily took a sip of tea. “How about you? What have you been up to?” She tried to sign as she asked.

  He chuckled as he corrected her mistakes. “Lots of jobs now, so Dad and I are working extra.” He glanced at the clock. “I need to go. I’m supposed to be at the hardware store, but wanted to stop and say hi to Bodie and Fritz.”

  He cuddled Bodie once more before waving goodbye and hurrying to his truck. He drove away, ignoring Lily’s wave, his focus intent on the street traffic and his mirrors. Andy was a cautious driver and took extra care, worried that he may not hear a siren, so paid close attention to his surroundings.

  Mel was never talkative, but she was even more quiet than usual on the drive to the community college. Lily made sure she had her new cell phone and smiled when Mel reached in the back to pet Bodie and Fritz before getting out of the car. Lily waited as she watched Mel stand, staring wide-eyed at the campus. It was a gorgeous setting not far from the water, and while larger than a typical high school, not overwhelming. They catered to locals for two-year degree programs, career education, and vocational classes.

  Donna had helped Mel decide on her class choices and urged her to try things and use this time to figure out what she enjoyed studying most. Mel had settled on creative writing, history, and an art class. She stood rooted to the sidewalk and Lily climbed from behind the wheel and leaned against the car, next to her.

  She risked putting arm around her shoulder. “You’re going to have a great adventure here. I’m very proud of you. You’ve studied the layout of the campus and know where you’re going and I know you’re dying to spend some time in that gorgeous library. Donna will be here just after five to pick you up and then I want to hear all about your day. Call me on your lunch break if you need to.”

  Mel turned to face Lily, nodded, and set off on the concrete pathway to find her first class. Lily let out a breath, hoping her pep talk proved to be true. Mel looked more like a scared girl on her first day of junior high than an almost twenty-year old woman going to college.

  She waited until Mel disappeared around a corner and then got back in the car. Part of Bodie’s puppy training involved taking him to new places and getting him used to commotion and distractions. This morning, since they were already out and about, she drove them to the ferry terminal, where there was always a bit of action and noise. Driftwood Bay didn’t have a bustling metro area, so the dock would have to do. Bodie would need to learn to be comfortable on a ferry and today would be his maiden voyage.

  Lily parked and attached leashes to both dogs, making sure Bodie’s training vest was secured before slipping on her backpack. The crossing to Coupeville was just over thirty minutes, so it was an easy adventure. Puppies are inquisitive, which meant Lily had to keep reminding Bodie to focus and keep his head up, instead of sniffing at every new thing he encountered. There weren’t many people boarding, but enough to intrigue Bodie. He hadn’t yet met anyone he didn’t think was a fan.

  Fritz was also a friendly dog, but being older and wiser, he had mastered sticking close to Lily and not darting or tugging on his leash to reach every new visitor. She got her ticket and followed the walkway for passengers and made her way to the outdoor deck. Bodie’s head darted from side to side as he took in all the new smells and sounds. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and the sun warming her through the lightweight jacket she wore.

  Bodie quivered with nervousness or excitement, she wasn’t sure which. He took in all the activity and squirmed near her feet. She gave him the command for down and it took a few tries, but he finally settled next to Fritz. As the ferry pulled away, Bodie stood, disturbed by the motion and noise below deck.

  Running her hands over him, Lily did her best to reassure him and urge him into his down position. She gazed out at the water, which looked like panes of rippled blue stained glass, and inhaled the fresh air. She hadn’t traveled by ferry much, but living in Driftwood Bay she would have many opportunities to use her new favorite mode of transportation.

  As she looked across at the lighthouse near Fort Warden, her mind drifted to Mel and
what she would be doing. Lily hoped she was beginning to relax and had met some new friends. Along with the excitement of a new adventure for Mel and an opportunity for her to use her sharp mind, worry niggled at the back of Lily’s mind. She feared Mel was the type to throw in the towel if she met resistance. Kids, even those in college, could be mean and unwelcoming, especially to someone who was different. Lily hoped with everything she had that Mel would be enthusiastic when she came home tonight, and that she wouldn’t have to work to convince her to return next week.

  The seven-mile journey didn’t last long and before she knew it, the captain was announcing their arrival at the Coupeville landing. Lily collected the leashes and led the dogs off the ferry, keeping a firm grip on Bodie’s leash, correcting him along the pathway.

  Fort Casey State Park was less than a ten-minute walk from the ferry landing and Lily guided the dogs in that direction. They had over an hour to explore the park, take a break, and get back to the terminal in time for the next ferry. Swishing tails from side to side revealed how happy the dogs were on their excursion. Lily stopped at a shaded bench and placed the dogs on the thick grass next to her. She unearthed bottles of water and a travel bowl and let them take a long drink, while she drank from her own bottle.

  They made a short loop around one area of the park, with Bodie tempted by every bush and shrub along their way. They didn’t encounter any other people on their walk, until they got closer to the ferry dock and the surrounding traffic. Bodie stopped in his tracks at the blare of a horn, but calmed as soon as Lily reassured him. Her job, as the trainer explained, was to expose him to different things and build his confidence.

  As they settled in for the return trip, Lily’s cell phone pinged. She dug it out of her pocket and smiled at the message from Mel. She was eating the lunch Lily had helped her pack and then heading to the library. Lily tapped in a quick reply with a happy emoji and breathed a sigh of relief.

  While Mel hadn’t been effusive in her brief message, Lily was confident if Mel had been unhappy, the message would have had a negative tone. She patted both dogs on their heads and said, “How about that, boys? I think Mel is having a good day. She deserves that much, at least.”

  They were back in Driftwood Bay before noon and Lily stopped by Muffins and More, treated herself to a late breakfast, alfresco style, and took a fresh loaf of bread with her when she left.

  The dogs were tired, with their eyes closing as she drove home. Once she got them inside, they sprawled out on the deck and slept in the shade. She checked the slow cooker she had started before leaving and gave it a stir. Mel loved the potato soup at the café by the library and Lily wanted to surprise her with her version of it for dinner.

  Today’s guests were due to arrive in just over an hour, giving her time to decompress with a cup of tea and a few chapters of her book.

  Lily had the guests checked in and orientated and had just added the cream to the soup when the front door opened and the dogs hurried to greet Mel. Her cheeks were flushed when she came into the kitchen and set her backpack near the top of the stairs.

  Lily looked up from the sink and arched her brows. “Well, how was the first day?”

  Mel shrugged as she opened the fridge. “Not bad. My classes are okay so far and the library is so nice.” She went on, more animated than Lily had ever seen her, describing the furnishings and the walls of windows that let in all the natural light. She had perused the shelves and spent her break at one of the wooden tables, reading ahead in her textbook.

  Mel finished pouring her glass of iced tea and slid into one of the chairs at the counter. “The library is modern and sleek, and quite beautiful, but I like the Driftwood Bay Library better. It’s cozier and comfortable. All those stacks of fiction books feel like old friends.” Her brows rose as she glanced at the slow cooker. “Something smells good.”

  “Potato soup. It’s done so we can eat whenever you’re ready.”

  “I’m starving.” Mel grinned and headed for the cabinet to retrieve plates and bowls.

  Friday, after their jaunt to the beach, Lily loaded Mel and Bodie in the car. This time, she left Fritz home, so Bodie could get in some field trip time while Mel was at her appointment.

  Mel’s leg bobbed up and down and she rubbed her thumb over the top of her finger while Lily drove downtown and parked in front of an old Victorian home that served as Dr. Clay’s office. “Do you want me to go in with you?”

  Mel stared at the house not answering. Lily tapped her shoulder. “Are you okay on your own or shall I go in with you?”

  “I’ll be okay.” She nodded, grabbed her backpack, and plodded up the steps. Lily kept an eye on her while she unloaded Bodie. Mel was standing at the door, staring at it. She reached out for the doorknob and then pulled away, as if it was too hot to touch. Lily tucked her head behind the seat, pretending to look for something, willing Mel to go inside.

  Finally, she opened the door and disappeared behind it. Lily let out the breath she had been holding and led Bodie down the sidewalk in search of activity and distractions.

  As she and Bodie strolled down the street, she saw flyers drawing attention to the last few Saturday Farmer’s Markets and made a mental note to stop by tomorrow. Her cottage guests were all part of a wedding party and would not be around tonight or tomorrow for her normal social hour, so she was free in the afternoon and evenings. There was live music tomorrow night and that would be a great place to take Bodie and introduce him to a crowd.

  Fifty minutes went by quickly and she and Bodie were back at the car waiting when Mel emerged from the office. Lily loaded Bodie into the backseat, while Mel settled into the passenger seat. “Did you like her?” Lily slid behind the wheel.

  “She was nice. Better than I expected. She wants to see me twice a week. Tuesdays, which I set up to coincide with Bodie’s training time, and Fridays.”

  “That’s perfect. I’m glad you liked her.” Lily checked her rearview mirror and smiled at Bodie’s sweet face. “Bodie and I are going to come down to the Farmer’s Market and stay for the music tomorrow night. Do you want to join us?”

  “Don’t we have to do the snacks for the guests?”

  “They’re going to a wedding, so we’ve got two nights off.” She winked and pulled out into traffic. “I was thinking a movie and popcorn tonight and the market, pizza, and music tomorrow. Mac wants us to come to his place on Sunday, so we have a full weekend.”

  Lily turned into her driveway, surprised to see Jeff leaning against an old patrol car. Stripped of its decals and emblems, shiny silver paint patches stood out against the otherwise faded body of the four-door Crown Victoria. She pulled to a stop and waved.

  She unloaded Bodie and walked over to Jeff. “What are you doing here and when did you get demoted to this old battleax?

  He grinned. “This isn’t mine. It’s actually a gift. For Mel.”

  Lily waved her arm over the car. “Mel, Jeff has a surprise for you.”

  When Mel reached them, Jeff tapped the hood of the car and explained the department was auctioning off some of their old equipment. He was able to get the organization that supports victims of crime to put up the costs for it, the registration, and the first year of insurance.. “

  Mel’s mouth hung open as she took in the huge car. “I’ve never driven before.”

  “We’ve got a retired officer that teaches driver’s education,” Jeff continued. “He can get you trained and ready for your driving test. Donna and I thought this would give you some freedom to go wherever you need to, plus it’s big and safe.” He opened the door. “Get in and see how it feels. I can show you the basics and get your seat and mirrors adjusted for you. We can take it down to the DMV and get it registered.”

  Lily smiled at Mel, who despite her nervousness, grinned as she climbed into the driver’s seat. She looked so small behind the wheel. The land yacht wasn’t pretty, but would provide solid transportation. Between it and her cell phone, Mel would have more security
and freedom.

  Jeff showed her how all the controls in the car worked and convinced her to let him take her to register the car and get it insured. Lily waved as she watched them leave. She led Bodie up the steps, where Fritz, who was trustworthy enough to be left in the house alone, greeted them at the door.

  “Mel’s got herself a new set of wheels, boys. We’ll have to see if she’ll give all of us a ride once she gets a few lessons under her belt.”

  Sunday, the guests checked out, and Mel helped Lily clean and ready the cottages before they set out for lunch and an afternoon at Mac’s. Lily let Mel drive and helped her tuck an old blanket around the backseat, to keep the seats as free of dog hair as possible. Bodie and Fritz happily loaded into the spacious area, ready for a new adventure.

  Mel’s stiff posture and the many adjustments to her mirrors and seat revealed her unease. Lily remembered teaching Kevin to drive, her hands gripping the dash in front of her and always telling him to slow down or watch out. Kevin had been much more confident and relaxed, not taking it as seriously as she would have liked.

  Lily willed herself to relax and do better with Mel. The young woman didn’t need more pressure; she was applying enough of it herself. Before starting the car, Mel looked over to make sure Lily had her seatbelt fastened. She didn’t turn on the radio and glanced in the rearview mirror before putting the car in gear.

  She eased onto the street like a ninety-year old grandma on her way to church. Lily kept her eyes focused straight ahead, giving her directions on where to turn, not certain that Mel would remember. Quick moves weren’t in Mel’s comfort zone, so Lily gave her plenty of notice. Speeding would never be a problem for Mel. Several cars whizzed by them on the way to Mac’s, while Mel continued to travel about five miles under the speed limit.