The Winter Sea

by Morrissey, Di

  ‘Well, she sounds energetic enough. I’ll meet her for a chat. Peeling vegetables and stacking the dishwasher, cleaning up and stirring sauces ain’t for everybody!’

  Almost every evening, after the tradesmen had left and Steve had gone home, Michael would arrive at the boatshed after he’d shut up the surgery, usually bringing with him some sort of dinner for both of them to share. Cassie was always disappointed when some animal emergency prevented his coming.

  ‘The place looks as though you’re getting close to opening!’ he said as the restaurant neared completion.

  ‘I’ve been thinking about the sort of event I want to put on to celebrate our opening.’

  ‘Hope I’m invited.’

  ‘Don’t be silly. Of course you are. I couldn’t have done it without you,’ said Cassie.

  ‘I don’t think that’s quite true, but I was happy to have input into the wine selection when we visited that winery you found,’ he said with a smile. ‘What do you want to do for the big opening?’

  ‘I want as many people as possible to come, so I thought I would have a very simple menu. But I’ll have to charge people for the meal or I’ll go broke on the first night.’

  ‘That’s right. You have to be sensible. Why don’t you let people know that part of the cost of the meal will go towards a local charity?’

  ‘What a great idea. People will be happy to do that. Did you have any one in mind?’ asked Cassie.

  ‘I’ve always been associated with the Royal Life Saving Society – why not choose them?’

  Cassie laughed. ‘I reckon Steve will go along with that, too.’

  ‘Are you getting any media?’ asked Michael.

  ‘I’ll invite the local newspaper and the local radio station said they might send someone if the time suits.’

  ‘When you’re up and running smoothly, you could look at getting some metropolitan media coverage.’

  ‘Baby steps, Michael. I don’t want to get too ambitious. I just want to stay solvent.’

  ‘You will! It’s a great location for people exploring the south coast. You wait. Steve’s food and the fact everything you’re serving is organic and locally sourced will get you a following. Does the Chamber of Commerce and the local tourist information know about the opening?’

  ‘They’re on the invitation list.’

  ‘Good job. You’ve thought of everything. I can hardly wait.’

  Cassie smiled to herself. Michael had been so supportive and she was grateful for his interest, and it was not just because he was a refreshing change from Hal. She realised that her feelings for Michael were deepening.

  *

  Sooner than she could have imagined, the Blue Boatshed was starting to look pretty slick. Not in a trendy city way, but with a casually elegant beach look. A cheerful striped awning sheltered the tables near the front entrance; there were tubs of bright red geraniums at the doorway; and on the shady cool deck over the water was the long communal table Cassie had originally pictured. It had all come together even better than Cassie had imagined. She’d painted the tables and chairs white and each table was set with the blue and white plates as well as a small vase of white flowers that she’d picked from the massive bush in Michael’s front garden. It all looked tasteful and slightly European because she’d bought a roll of red and white cotton gingham and Trixie had run up dozens of colourful serviettes. The clean, freshly painted surfaces; the airy, open-plan seating; the hospitable sitting room area, which served as a bar and place to drink coffee; and the compact and efficient kitchen all looked professional and inviting.

  When it came, Cassie couldn’t have ordered more perfect weather for the evening of the opening of the Blue Boatshed. The sea and lake were calm and shining, the stars glittered and, even though it was still very cool, there was not a breath of wind. Tall gas heaters at either end of the deck kept things warm, while inside candles and subdued lighting gave the place a cosy ambience. All the things on the ‘to do’ list had been ticked off and the staff were ready and excited. Steve, though faintly stressed, was on top of everything. Trixie had delivered her desserts and was staying on to help Mollie in the kitchen.

  Jenny had arrived earlier in the day with a huge arrangement of flowers.

  ‘Made it back from Broome just in time for the grand opening,’ she told Trixie.

  Cassie was at the front of house, as hostess. It did feel like a party for friends. After the warmth of Cassie’s greeting, all the guests quickly felt the same. Bill was restricted to the front entrance where he was the official welcomer, though his brief barks were hardly heard above the chatter and laughter.

  ‘The starters were divine, no wonder the waitresses were besieged, drinks flowing, people are getting on and enjoying themselves. Everyone is having a ball,’ said Jenny quietly to Michael.

  ‘You must be proud of Cassie for pulling this off,’ said Michael.

  ‘I’m pleased to see her so happy. This place has given her a new lease on life. I hadn’t realised what a rut she was in or how unhappy she was in that marriage or working in that law firm. But out of bad things, good things can come. And you have been incredibly supportive and helpful, too, for which I thank you,’ added Jenny. ‘As have all your family. In fact the room seems to be packed with Aquinos!’

  ‘Yes, with Uncle Ricardo’s ninetieth birthday not long ago and now this, I don’t think I’ve seen so many rellies under one roof for ages.’

  ‘Is your uncle here? Cassie said he was very sprightly for his age.’

  ‘Not so sprightly that he goes out much at night. Jenny, speaking of relatives, this is my cousin Frank. Have you met? He’s responsible for supplying the seafood selection tonight.’

  Jenny shook hands with Frank who looked resplendent in a striped sweater and lavender silk shirt.

  ‘So you’re Cassie’s mother? I see where she gets her beauty.’ Frank gave her a cheeky smile. ‘This place is a very welcome addition to our area, as is Cassie. Will you be a regular visitor, too?’

  ‘I hope so. In between my travels,’ said Jenny, enjoying the banter. ‘I’m looking forward to your feast of the sea. What do you recommend?’

  ‘The prawns are local, and perfection. And I had a hand in catching the magnificent snapper that is also on the menu. It was swimming only hours ago.’

  The official photographer, hired for the evening, stopped and asked to take their picture. Frank put his arm around Jenny’s shoulder and flashed a big smile for the camera.

  Guests were finally seated and the two waitresses began serving the meal. Now serious attention was given to eating and discussing the food. As the evening wore on and guests were convinced the food was an undoubted hit, the mood mellowed and Cassie circulated among the tables. She could tell that the night was a smashing success. The compliments were universal and genuine, and Steve was finally cajoled into emerging from the kitchen to take a bow.

  Cassie made a simple speech, thanking everyone for coming and supporting the Blue Boatshed.

  ‘I can’t imagine undertaking a dream like this anywhere else. Everyone has been so supportive of this venture. Thank you all for that. I hope the Blue Boatshed will bring more business and visitors to this very special place. Thank you all, again.’

  She moved around the room speaking to people individually.

  ‘Tonight is going to be quite an act to follow,’ declared Ron, the newsagent.

  ‘Well that is exactly what we intend to do! Just get better,’ said Cassie.

  As the last guests left and Trixie and Mollie prepared to go, leaving the kitchen spotless, Steve downed the last of a glass of red wine.

  ‘Congrats, Cassie. We’re off to a good start.’

  ‘If there were any hiccups in the kitchen don’t tell me now. We’ll talk about it tomorrow.’

  ‘Tonight was brilliant,’ said Michael. ‘You wait, through word of mouth, this place will be packed out in no time. With so many people here, you should have raised quite a bit of money for the
Life Saving Society. Speaking of which, will you have any time for a quick surf soon?’

  ‘I might pass for the present. I’m working now and we open for lunch tomorrow.’

  ‘Lovely to see you again, Jenny. Congratulations on your amazing daughter,’ Michael said with a glance in Cassie’s direction.

  ‘Yes, she is very clever indeed. Of course she had good training from her father and me, but she’s certainly put her own stamp on this place. I’ll be sending friends down from Sydney! And of course I’ll be back soon myself.’

  Cassie walked with Michael to the door.

  ‘Where’s Bill?’

  ‘He put himself to bed upstairs. I think he got a bit overwhelmed by so many people.’

  ‘He’d better get used to it! It was great. I know how hard you worked,’ said Michael.

  ‘And we do it all over again tomorrow. I guess it’ll keep me out of mischief.’ Cassie stifled a yawn.

  Michael kissed her. ‘Take care. See you soon.’

  ‘Good night, Michael. And thanks, again.’

  Later, after Steve had left, Jenny gave Cassie a huge hug. ‘Well done. A restaurant is a lot of work, but it’s so rewarding when it works and yours will. You have good support down here. Nice people. Now, are you sure about me taking your bed?’

  ‘Absolutely. Bill is up there but once I’m settled here on the sofa he’ll come and join me. Thanks for everything, Mum.’

  ‘You’re welcome.’

  ‘Sleep well, Mum,’ said Cassie.

  *

  Cassie sat at the end of her jetty slowly reeling in her line. She didn’t always catch something when she fished at sunset on the full tide, but she found it a relaxing way to end the day when they weren’t open for dinner. The restaurant was open for lunch six days a week and served dinner only on Friday and Saturday nights. The evenings had initially been slow, but now, as the weather was becoming warmer, and the advertising campaign was taking effect, more people were venturing out to eat. The deck was especially popular, often with people who were dining alone, and several friendships had been stuck at the long table. There had been some initial hiccups in the running of the place but nothing too serious, just needing the smoothing out of routines and systems. The staff rubbed along well together.

  She felt the planks in the jetty wobble but didn’t turn around. Bill knew who it was and wagged his tail. Michael sat down beside her, his legs dangling above the water. He leaned down, staring into the water where small fish were chasing the burley Cassie had dropped on the surface. Bill nudged him, wanting his ears scratched. Michael cuddled the dog and rubbed its head.

  ‘Shh,’ Cassie warned Michael, as she concentrated on the tip of her rod, which was gently bending. ‘C’mon, take it and run, you silly fish,’ she muttered. There was a sudden tug and the line spun from the reel. She jerked the rod upwards and began winding in the line.

  ‘Could be a decent bream,’ she said as she saw the greenish glint of the fish and lifted it from the water, grabbing it to release the hook before she dropped the fish into the bucket behind her.

  Unusually Bill took no notice of this action, but leaned against Michael who still held him close.

  Cassie glanced at Michael. ‘You’re quiet.’

  ‘I didn’t want to distract you.’ He leaned his head on top of Bill’s and closed his eyes.

  ‘Michael? Are you all right?’

  He bit his lip and straightened, releasing Bill. ‘Uncle Ricardo died.’

  ‘No! Oh, Michael. I’m so sorry.’ She reached out and put her hand on his shoulder. ‘What happened?’

  ‘Well, he was ninety. His heart wasn’t very robust. He had a bypass operation some time back, so I suppose it was always on the cards. We were amazed he managed to get this far.’

  ‘He made it to his ninetieth. That was a good thing. Thank goodness your uncle Pietro came out for it. This is so sad. I’m so sorry. Is there anything I can do? How’s the family?’

  ‘Sad, a bit in shock. Frank told me that it was peaceful. Uncle Ricardo complained a bit, said he wasn’t feeling well and went and lay down for a nap after lunch, and he just didn’t wake up.’

  Cassie began winding in her line. ‘Let’s have a drink. A toast to Ricardo. I’ll treat you to dinner, too, if you like.’

  ‘Thanks. I want to go up to his house. That’s where the rest of the family will be. But yes, a small drink would be nice.’

  Cassie quietly poured two glasses of wine as Michael reminisced about Ricardo. ‘He worked hard to make a success of the business, just like his father had. Just Pietro left of that generation now. It’s very sad.’

  ‘Your uncle Ricardo should have written a memoir. Put things down for the younger generation, so they’d know their family history,’ said Cassie.

  ‘How true. I wonder how many families think about writing down the memories of the older generation and then, before anyone does anything, it’s all too late.’

  Cassie reached out and took his hand and they sat quietly, Bill at their feet looking from one to the other.

  ‘He knows you’re upset,’ said Cassie.

  Michael nodded, drained his glass and stood up. ‘I’d better go. Thanks for letting me have a bit of down time.’

  ‘That’s what I’m here for. Let me know if there’s anything I can do. Anything.’

  She walked with him to his car and he hugged her goodbye, holding her tight.

  ‘I’ll be thinking of you and your family,’ Cassie said softly.

  ‘Thank you,’ replied Michael as he got into his car and drove off to join the rest of his family in mourning Ricardo Aquino.

  *

  The funeral was a big event. Everyone from the district seemed to be there. The mayor, the local member of parliament and even the local television station attended. Cassie sat with Geoff and Trixie at the back of the church for the requiem mass.

  ‘There are so many people here,’ whispered Cassie. ‘Far more than at his party. They are even standing outside, listening to the funeral over the loudspeaker. I’ve never seen such a large funeral.’

  ‘Everyone will want to pay their respects. He was a pillar of the community,’ Geoff whispered back. ‘Like the mayor said at his birthday party, Ricardo was a very important and respected man on the south coast. His death is the passing of an era.’

  Cassie looked towards the front of the church where all of the Aquinos were sitting.

  Such a large family, she thought. It must be wonderful to have each other for support at such a sad time.

  After the funeral there was to be a large get-together at Ricardo’s home. Cassie approached Michael outside the church and apologised that she and Trixie couldn’t attend the gathering as she had to open the restaurant. Michael nodded and said he would see her later. As she attended the lunch time rush, Cassie’s thoughts returned to Michael and the Aquino family. Although she hadn’t known them for long, her heart grieved for these wonderful warm people who had helped her settle into Whitby Point where she now felt so at home.

  *

  A few weeks later when the Blue Boatshed had been running successfully, Cassie thought she would like to go to Sydney to visit her mother.

  ‘Go, Cassie. Take a break,’ said Steve. ‘If you go after lunch on Sunday and come back Tuesday morning, you won’t even be missed.’

  It had been some time since she had left for the south coast and when she returned to Sydney, Cassie realised she hadn’t missed the city at all. She enjoyed sitting in Jenny’s garden and catching up with a couple of her friends the next day, who politely said that they were intrigued by her ‘cute little restaurant’. But even in those couple of days Cassie knew that Sydney was no longer for her. The traffic was abominable and the parking was atrocious and that was just the tip of the iceberg about what was wrong with living in Sydney.

  How did I cope with this? she asked herself. Life is so much easier at Whitby Point and Blue Crane Lake.

  So the best part of her time away was the dr
ive back down the coast to Blue Crane Lake. Cassie sang along with Regina Spektor and made mental notes of things she needed to discuss with Steve about the restaurant. Her restaurant. It was hard to believe that not so long ago she had been in the depths of despair and now she had established her own business. How good was that?

  And all the time she was away she thought about Michael. She couldn’t wait to see him and tell him her thoughts about Sydney . . . Just thinking about him gave her a shiver of anticipation and pleasure, and she was forced to admit to herself that she was falling in love with him. The more she saw of Michael, the more she recognised his wonderful qualities: his kindness and decency, his balanced view of the world and his gentle humour and thoughtful intelligence.

  *

  That evening, Michael called around to see her. He said he was glad she was back safely and had enjoyed a good time in the big smoke.

  ‘And not anxious to go back any time soon,’ she assured him.

  ‘I made a small acquisition while you were away that I thought I might share with you.’

  ‘I’m curious, give me a clue.’

  ‘You’ll need a swimsuit and a picnic basket. Bill might need a life jacket,’ he said.

  ‘Boating?’ asked Cassie.

  ‘Sailing. I bought a Cavalier sail boat. There are a few nice places to sail to around here.’

  ‘How fantastic. What a great idea. I’ll bring the picnic,’ said Cassie.

  ‘Maybe one Sunday afternoon, after you’ve closed up. Okay with you?’

  ‘Perfect. I can’t wait,’ said Cassie.

  ‘Good.’ Michael fondled Bill’s ears.

  ‘I suppose I’d better be going,’ he said reluctantly. He looked at her. ‘I missed you while you were in Sydney.’

  ‘Did you?’ Cassie smiled back. ‘You don’t really have to go, do you?’

  ‘Not if you don’t want me to,’ Michael said, taking a step closer to her.

  Cassie lifted her arms. ‘No, I don’t.’

  Without a word, Michael took her in his arms, enfolding her as they kissed. No more needed to be said.

  *

  It was late in the afternoon. Lunch had been cleared away, the staff had just left and Cassie was updating her ordering records on the computer when Bill gave a short bark, recognising whoever had just come through the door. As Cassie lifted her head Frank stormed inside with Bill following, the dog’s tail down, ears back. Neither looked happy.