Something in the Wine

by Tricia Stringer

  “Why don’t you just say no?”

  She looked at Flynn. “I can’t.”

  “But why do something if you hate it?”

  Keely jumped up, sending the chair skittering away behind her. Why had she said anything? She’d never admitted her hate of teaching to anyone. Why now and to Flynn of all people? It was such a jumble and confusion inside her she couldn’t find the words to make proper sense of it to herself, so how could she explain it to him?

  She wrapped an arm around a verandah post and leaned her head against it. “I shouldn’t have said anything. I’ve just enjoyed being here and doing something totally different. But I have to earn a living. Teaching is what I do.” The shroud settled back around her with its familiar weight. She rolled a shoulder to ease the ache. “But I feel like I’m always holding my breath, waiting for something.”

  Flynn came to stand beside her. “Stop waiting,” he said earnestly. “Use your talents to do other things. We still owe you payment for the labels but wine labels are just a drop in the ocean. You can earn money from your art in other ways.”

  “I don’t expect payment.”

  “Why not? A good label is very important and if we use the sketch of Jack as well, the remuneration will be quite substantial.”

  Keely gaped at him. It had never crossed her mind that she would receive payment. The Levalliers had been so good to her, letting her stay rent-free. She’d eaten their food and drunk their wine.

  “I couldn’t take your money.”

  “Why not? If you hadn’t done those sketches, I would’ve had to pay someone else to create something.”

  He reached up and pulled back a tendril of hair that had fallen across her face. The updo Maggie had created that morning was still in place but a glance in the mirror back at the house had shown her that strands were beginning to escape. She needed to let it all down and brush it.

  “Keely, you have to believe in yourself a little more.”

  He was standing very close. He took her arm from the post and held both of her hands in his. Trapped between the light from the studio and the glow of the moon, shadows fell across his face and hid his eyes but she could feel his gaze.

  “I’m sorry you and I didn’t get off to a very good start,” he said. “I was rude and I made certain assumptions when we first met and I’ve never really apologised properly. I hope you…”

  He didn’t finish the sentence but leaned forward and kissed her. Not on the cheek but on the lips. It was a brief touch but it was like an electric shock. She gasped and every bit of her tingled.

  Flynn straightened up and let go of her hands. “Euan and I are grateful for what you’ve done for us.”

  She looked down. It wasn’t his gratitude she wanted but it was all she was entitled to. Just for a moment, she’d allowed herself to think that he might like her as more than a friend but she was dreaming. Kat was the one he loved.

  “I have enjoyed helping.” She straightened and stepped away from the post. “I’d better get some sleep, though. Maggie thinks we could be even busier tomorrow.”

  She reached the door and turned back. He faced her and, in the light, she thought he looked sad.

  “See you in the morning.” He gave a half wave and slipped off into the night.

  * * *

  Kat stood with her arm around her grandmother as they watched the paramedics lift the trolley into the back of the ambulance with Pappou firmly attached. He was propped up with an oxygen mask over his grey face and his right hand clutched his left arm but even so, he managed to wiggle his fingers at them.

  “I’m so glad you were here, Katerina.” Yia-yia shivered.

  Kat pulled her grandmother close in a hug. “Come on. I’ll get your jacket and we’ll follow in the car.”

  Yia-yia had woken her in the middle of the night to ask for her help. Pappou was in pain and not feeling well. Kat took one look at him and called the ambulance. She’d never witnessed anyone have a heart attack before but her first-aid training told her Pappou had the symptoms. She’d wanted to ring her uncle Tony while they waited, but Pappou had said no more fussing and she hadn’t wanted to cause him any extra distress.

  They went inside as the ambulance drove away.

  “I’ll ring Uncle Tony now,” she said. “He will want to know.”

  “Yes, I want him to be there.” Yia-yia crumpled into a chair. “Oh, Katerina, I couldn’t stand to lose my Theo.” She wailed into her hands.

  “You’re not going to lose him, Yia-yia. It’s just that he’s just not as young as he used to be.” Kat took her grandmother’s small wizened hands in her own and squeezed them. “Come on, we’ll go to the hospital and you’ll see, he’ll be fine.”

  She smiled reassuringly to hide her own fear. Pappou held the family together. The thought of him dying was terrifying.

  CHAPTER 31

  Keely had to stop and check she was in the right place. The mood in the Levallier house was the opposite to the happy scene she had walked out of with Flynn the night before. She could hear the anger in Euan’s voice even before she opened the sliding door.

  “It’s crazy, Maggie, and thoughtless. You know what it’s like. Today will be our busiest day. You wait and see. Flynn just dashes off to that woman and leaves us to carry out what was his idea.” He waved his hand at Keely, who still hesitated in the doorway. “Keely is a visitor and she’s running the kitchen. It’s not fair.”

  “Good morning, Keely.” Maggie gave her a quick smile. “Do come in if you’re brave.”

  “Yes, good morning.” Euan’s face didn’t look very welcoming. “If you want to leave at any time, I will completely understand.”

  “Is something wrong?” Keely wasn’t sure how she would cope with the day ahead, after a restless night imagining Flynn’s kiss over and over and turning it into something more than it was. She was terrified he would be able to read on her face what she imagined in her head. Thankfully he wasn’t in the kitchen.

  “Flynn’s gone off to be with Kat,” Euan said.

  Keely stared at him. He’d almost spat the name. She couldn’t understand why he disliked Kat so much but at the same time her insides were in turmoil. At first she was relieved Flynn wasn’t there. She didn’t know how she was going to face him after that kiss. It had obviously been a simple thing for him but Keely still tingled when she thought of it. But then to discover he was with Kat sent a stab of jealousy through her. No matter how much she told herself she liked Kat, her heart didn’t feel that way when she thought of Kat and Flynn together.

  “It was something urgent, Euan. The poor girl sounded quite distressed on the phone,” Maggie said. “Anyway, you’re exaggerating the situation. He’s coming back and he’s promised to pick up the fresh rolls on the way. Someone had to do that anyway.”

  “And this business about him going off interstate to work. Why did that suddenly pop up at the breakfast table?”

  “You pushed him into a corner,” Maggie said.

  “So, it’s my fault he wants to leave?”

  “He’s young. He wants to make his mark. He’s weighing up his options.”

  “You seem to know a bit about it. I suppose he’s discussed it with you already.”

  “Only in passing.”

  “Anna mentioned something a while back but I thought she was overreacting,” Euan said. “He’s probably even spoken to Keely about it.”

  Keely felt the colour flood her cheeks as she recalled the conversation she’d had with Flynn the previous night. She looked from Euan’s angry face to Maggie’s sympathetic smile and wished she hadn’t put her hair up in the style Maggie had taught her. “He only mentioned something vaguely,” she said.

  “I see,” Euan snapped. “Everyone knows my son’s business, but me.”

  “Oh, Euan.” Maggie’s response was just as sharp. “If only you weren’t so pig-headed. Sometimes you can’t see the wood for the trees.”

  “There are plenty of people trying to tell me wha
t to see.”

  “You mean bloody busybody Anna actually told you his plans, and you still didn’t see how your son was feeling?”

  “Anna has our best interests at heart, especially Flynn’s.”

  “Of course she has.” There was a hint of sarcasm in Maggie’s voice.

  Keely looked at her quickly. What a relief she wasn’t alone in her dislike of Anna.

  “Thank goodness Dianna is coming in a few days,” Euan said. “I might have someone on my side.”

  “Oh dear. Should I get out my violin?” Maggie’s look was smug now. “I hope she’s not too soft on you. From my brief introduction to her, I think she has more sense than that. Anyway, brother dear, I’d better get myself ready for the day. It’s going to be a long one.”

  “I’ll make sure everything is ready outside.” Euan snatched up his cap.

  They left the kitchen in opposite directions and in the ensuing silence Keely switched on the kettle. Maggie was right about one thing, she thought. It’s going to be a very long day.

  * * *

  “He’s got to have bypass surgery.” Kat’s voice croaked and she looked exhausted, propped in the hospital waiting-room chair, her face nearly as pale as the white wall behind her. Flynn put an arm around her shoulders.

  “When?”

  “They’ll move him to Perth today.”

  Flynn glanced up as more of Theo’s family arrived and another babble of explanation took place.

  “Will you close River Dynasty for today?”

  Kat shook her head. “Pappou’s had a heart attack but he’s still giving orders. Uncle Tony will take Yia-yia to Perth and the rest of us will make sure the business goes on.”

  There was a loud wailing sound from one of Kat’s aunts.

  Flynn looked around. “Has something more happened?”

  Kat sighed. “No, my aunt reacts that way to everything.”

  “How about we get some fresh air?”

  “I’d love a decent coffee.” Kat gave him a little smile.

  “Anna will make us one.”

  Flynn stood back while Kat told her family she was leaving. The night of the River Dynasty party, he’d been envious of her big family. He thought again of the scene he’d had with his own little family that morning.

  He’d already been on edge, waiting for Keely to appear at the door and wondering how she would treat him after his bungled attempt at a kiss. The night before he’d wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her properly and he’d got the sense that she wanted that too but he’d read it wrong again. As soon as he’d got close to her she’d bolted. He shook his head. He had no luck with women but his ageing father had no trouble catching them.

  Euan had casually mentioned at breakfast that Dianna was coming to stay for a few weeks and something in Flynn had snapped. All the good work of the day before vanished. He was tired of trying to work out where he fitted and what Euan wanted from him. With Dianna in the house, Flynn was convinced that he wouldn’t be comfortable. He’d flung in the suggestion of the job in South Australia, to try to force Euan’s hand, but it didn’t work. It took Euan by surprise but, as usual, he evaded the discussion and then Kat had called.

  Her tired face appeared before him, interrupting his thoughts. “I’m ready.”

  He led the way to the car. Even though the morning was mild, Flynn had noticed her shiver a couple of times, probably a reaction to all that had happened. He kept a protective arm around her shoulders while they waited at Anna’s back door. Why did he find it so easy to be close with Kat and yet with Keely he was so awkward?

  Anna opened the door. “Hello, you two. What’s brought you here so early?”

  Flynn gave her a quick explanation and she whisked them inside to the cosy kitchen full of warmth and delicious smells.

  * * *

  Maggie’s prediction had been correct. The customers had come in their droves as soon as Levallier Dell was open for business. It was another beautiful day and Euan had dusted off the garden furniture he’d set up just outside the cellar door for the overflow of people to enjoy the sunshine. Keely and Maggie had been flat out in the kitchen until mid-afternoon when their supplies had all but gone, and they had decided to say the kitchen was closed.

  Maggie sent the two waitstaff home, then she collapsed onto the couch and kicked off her shoes. “I’m reminded why I’ve become more of a facilitator than a worker,” she groaned. “It’s easier on my feet.”

  Keely finished wiping down the benches. She was tired but restless. She’d hardly seen Flynn since he’d rushed in with the rolls, then dashed back to open up the cellar door. He’d only given her a quick hello and when Maggie asked after Kat he had briefly explained Theo’s emergency.

  Keely imagined the people still tasting out in the cellar door. She’d enjoyed the previous afternoon and her brief introduction to ‘front of house’, as Flynn had called it. Whether it was that or working beside Flynn, she wasn’t sure, but it had been fun.

  “Why don’t you go out and see what’s happening, before you rub a hole in that bench,” Maggie said. “There’s nothing more to do in here for now.”

  Keely dropped the cloth and glanced at Maggie but she was stretched out on the couch with her eyes closed. There were probably glasses to wash. She picked up a tray and went outside.

  “Keely!” A set of arms wrapped her in a bear hug as she stepped through the door. The tray dropped to one side.

  “Hi, Marty.”

  The quick brush of his lips on her cheek was accompanied by the smell of alcohol. Mike appeared at his side on slightly wobbly legs and Keely disentangled herself from Marty’s arms.

  Marty glanced around the cellar door. “This is a great place.”

  “Best winery we’ve been in all day,” Mike said.

  Marty leaned in closer and chuckled with beery breath. “That’s because it’s the only winery we’ve been in all day.”

  “We had to check out the breweries first,” Mike said.

  “Where’s Steve?” Keely looked towards the door. She hoped he was designated driver. Both Marty and Mike looked a little worse for wear.

  “He’s with the old guy over at the bar.” Marty nodded over his shoulder and swayed.

  “He says he knows every surf spot between here and the top of WA,” Mike said.

  Keely looked the other way to where Steve was in earnest conversation with Euan at the bar. He looked steady enough. There was an empty table beside her.

  “Shall we sit down?” she said.

  They all reached for chairs to drag up to the table.

  “We’re heading north next week,” Mike said. “Steve’s mate has to go back to work in Perth. We’re going to try the surf further up the coast.” He nodded in Euan’s direction. “The old bloke says that’s where the best action is at this time of the year.”

  Keely looked from Mike to Marty. They were both smiling at her, and Marty’s look was almost imploring. She felt a pang of sadness. They were moving on. Their paths might never cross again. She hadn’t spent a lot of time with them but it had been comforting to know they were around.

  “What about you, Keely?” Marty asked, and he looked steadily into her eyes. “Are you heading north yet? Do you want to come with us?”

  “I’m not sure.” She looked away, fiddled with the little scarecrow stand on the table, brushed at some scattered crumbs. “I’ve got a few days’ work here next week.”

  “At the winery?” Marty asked.

  “No, at the school.” As soon as Keely said the words, her stomach tumbled and the day seemed dull.

  “Can we buy you a drink?” Marty asked.

  “You don’t need to do that.” A glass of wine appeared in front of her and Keely looked up into Flynn’s unreadable expression. He held out a hand to Marty and Mike in turn. “I’m Flynn Levallier.”

  “So, the guy at the bar is your old man,” Mike said.

  “That’s right.”

  “I guess you know all about the
surf like he does.”

  “Not really. Surfing’s not my thing. Can I get you blokes a drink?”

  “Maybe a glass of red,” Mike said. “What do you reckon, Marty?”

  “Sure, my shout.” Marty reached for his wallet.

  “No, put that away,” Flynn said. “You’re friends of Keely’s, this one’s on the house.”

  Keely watched him walk away. It was great to catch up with Marty and Mike but she wished it were Flynn she was sharing a drink with.

  “Nice bloke,” Mike said. “No wonder you’re not interested in Marty.”

  “Mike,” Marty groaned.

  Keely felt the heat in her cheeks and there was no hair to hide it.

  “Hello, Keely.”

  She looked up and felt the burn deepen. She’d never actually officially met the guy standing beside her but she knew who he was.

  “Hello, Noddy,” she said.

  “I’m sorry to interrupt but I haven’t had a chance to apologise properly.”

  “Please, don’t worry.” Keely was acutely aware of Marty and Mike watching with interest.

  “No, I must,” he said. “I really am very sorry. I don’t usually throw myself half naked at chicks on the first date.”

  He grinned and Keely felt as if she was glowing like a lighthouse.

  “You’re the body surfer.” Mike wagged his finger at Noddy.

  “I’m better on the water,” Noddy said.

  “Have a seat.” Marty dragged another chair closer. “Would you like a drink?”

  “I’ll get it.” Keely leapt to her feet, nearly upsetting her own glass, still untouched, on the table where Flynn had placed it.

  “Thanks, Keely. A glass of Levallier red would be good.” He grinned. “Not as good as ours, of course, but a passable drop.” He turned away back to Marty and Mike. “So, you guys do a bit of surfing?”

  Keely went to the bar where Flynn had lined up three glasses of red.

  “I assume Noddy is having a glass,” he said.