Highland Dew

by Jeanne Magill

  Fiona walked with her to the car. “Do you ever talk to Reggie?”

  “I haven’t and probably should make the effort. After all, she was exiled to Hong Kong and they called it a promotion.”

  Fiona leaned in the window and brushed Bryce’s lips. “Drive carefully.”

  “Good night.”

  ****

  “Thank you, gentlemen. I’m happy that Global Distillers and Distribution could provide you with a new resource. Our offices in Scotland will begin processing your orders as soon as the papers are filed.” Reggie smiled and disconnected the conference call with the local buyers’ group.

  This deal had been simmering ever since she had arrived in Hong Kong. Leo warned her that frustrations ran high since sales outlets were unable to maintain supplies of Scottish whisky imports. Even though she had explained limited production due to the worldwide economic downturn, demand was through the roof. It was hard to believe their regional offices in Scotland were so cooperative. Either Leo had a hand in this, or the South was gonna rise again. This might be a good time to see what she could work out with Matt Takata.

  Either way, tonight would be dinner at Petrus compliments of GDD. “May, would you make a reservation at Petrus tonight for three at eight o’clock? Thanks. And please let Jack and Howard know.”

  None of this would have happened without her local team. Both had been with the company for years and had earned Leo’s respect. Everything had worked out perfectly, and yet it somehow lost some luster since she had no one to share the news with. She thought about calling Bryce…but would she even care?

  The lights were coming on across the harbor and the sound from the boats ricocheted amongst the tall buildings growing fainter as they reached the sky. Hong Kong turned out to be a remarkable city filled with excitement, sophistication, and mystery. Her initial apprehensions had gradually faded. Leo’s sense that a young, blond, southern belle would impact male-dominated sales teams had turned prophetic.

  From the small display bar, she poured a small amount of a new blend from one of the lowland distillers into a tasting glass. “Let happy hour commence.”

  Her phone app showed the times across the globe, and it indicated Scotland at 9:30 a.m. After a brief pause she dialed Bryce.

  She almost lost her nerve when Bryce answered.

  “Hi, Bryce. Hope it’s not too early…”

  “No. What a nice surprise. What time is it there?’

  “Five thirty, quitting time. I was celebrating a new deal and wanted to share the news. I mean other than with the folks here who know. I’m taking the team out for dinner later…well…I just wanted to touch base with you.”

  “I’m glad you did. Leo mentioned some problem they had over there with availability that he wanted you to work on. Guess you did. That’s great.”

  An uncomfortable pause prompted Reggie to speak. “Bryce, I’m so sorry.”

  “I know you are. Why don’t we put that behind us and move on?”

  Reggie put down the glass and relaxed. “Thanks. How’re things going with the MacDougall project? Leo seemed really pleased.”

  “I’m cautiously optimistic. They’ve agreed to let us help them and we’ve already sent a couple of barrels up to Speyburn to bottle and distribute locally. Gavin seems much more involved, and so is Fiona. I think they want to rebuild.”

  Surprising information. Reggie wondered what caused the turnaround, but wouldn’t push it right now. “That’s terrific. Along with the other leads, Leo must be excited. Are you staying long, or returning?”

  Another pause. “I asked Leo for some time off, and he agreed as long as I could still keep an eye on the new accounts. I’ve leased a small holiday cottage in the general area so I can be available.”

  I’ll bet. Don’t push it. “Well, you certainly deserve some time off. I can’t remember the last time you had a vacation.” She laughed. “I’ll bet your mom does, though.”

  Bryce groaned. “She’s not happy about this. I called Dad to let him know. Safer move. Listen, I hate to cut this short, but I have a meeting with the Townsend-McClure guys, but congratulations on the deal.”

  “Thanks. Keep in touch.” Reggie felt relief, and a little bit of melancholy. She missed the camaraderie they had developed over ten years. What she really wanted to know about was the relationship with Fiona. Next time. She tipped the taster and finished her drink.

  Chapter Forty-one

  A week before, Bryce had talked with both Brian and Gary about the prospect of helping out the MacDougalls in return for storing their whisky. They wanted to talk to their respective families, but were keen on a chance to save what they’d done. They were all scheduled to meet at the distillery at ten. Fiona wanted it to be early because her dad functioned better.

  Her first few nights in the cottage had taken some adjustment, as the farmland around Blacksboat was still as a churchyard, but now it felt like home.

  She finished drying her hands, hung up the dish towel, and looked out through the trees. The privacy really helped her to unwind. She even had food in the fridge and had invited Fiona over for dinner. Everything in order, she grabbed her bag and keys, and set off for the distillery.

  When she pulled in, Gavin had two young men following him toward the warehouse. Fiona waved as she parked.

  “Am I late?”

  “No, the lads were a bit early, and Dad was so excited to show off the place he’s been talking their ears off. Hope he doesn’t frighten them off.” She gave Bryce a quick hug.

  Fiona looked happy to see her. The now-familiar shiver shot through her. “Might be a good thing. Let them form their own opinions and then we can discuss possibilities.”

  “Would you help me bring a couple more chairs out on the front porch? I thought it might be easier than crowding around the kitchen table.”

  They moved three kitchen chairs out and arranged them on the porch. Fiona stood next to the railing, chewing her lip. Bryce moved closer and took her hand. “Are you worried about this?”

  “Not really. It’s just…everything seems to be moving so quickly all of a sudden.” She put her arm around Bryce’s waist. “Ever since I came home from Edinburgh, it’s been chaos and worry and fear. Then things settled, but I keep thinking the other shoe is going to drop. Do you know what I mean?”

  “I do. It has been a crazy few months in so many ways.” She put her arm around Fiona’s shoulders. “Certainly not what I imagined when I left San Francisco. The whole hassle with Reggie, Leo’s stroke, your dad’s fall and hospitalization…”

  “Don’t forget the fire.”

  “How could I? Guess we’ve had some hurdles. But finding this place was pure divine intervention in so many ways.” She kissed Fiona’s forehead. “And I’m sure there’s a lot more to come. Together, there’s no doubt in my mind we can figure it out.”

  “We’d better catch up with the tour or my dad will have those poor lads working.”

  They found all three crowded around the still. Brian was grinning. “This is a thing of beauty! I can’t believe you still have it working.”

  “This design’s been in my family for generations. Remember me telling you about the women holding onto the process to keep the excise men from finding out? Well, they also kept a good eye on everything that went on out here.”

  “They did a fine job. When did ya say was the last time you fired this up?”

  Bryce noticed Gavin working a rag around the whisky safe. He looked wistfully at the copper still covered with dust. “Been over a year or two, I expect. Too long.”

  Brian hopped down off the platform. “I understand. It’s a hard thing to let go. When me and Gary shut down after the last run it was like a knife in the heart. Ain’t that right?”

  Gary McClure looked completely different than Brian. Short, stocky, with thick dark hair and glasses, he spoke in low measured tones. “Aye. It hurt. When we first started up we had to set up everything. From my basement to a real distillery took a lea
p, and losing it, well…”

  “Gentlemen, if you’re done with the tour, we could all retire to the front porch for something to drink.” Fiona took her dad’s arm.

  ****

  Once she had everyone comfortable with something to drink. Fiona sat down with them.

  Gavin filled his pipe. “I gave the lads a taste of the Dew and the Special Reserve just so they have an idea what we do here.” He winked at Fiona.

  “We’re so glad we had a chance to come over and meet you and see your place,” Brian said.

  “And it’s a relief we’ll have a place to let our whisky age in a perfect environment,” Gary added.

  “Dad, I’m not sure I follow. Did I miss something?”

  “We’ve got empty rows in the back that can be used. Plus, the lads will help move our whisky up front for shipping to Speyburn. Shouldn’t be hard to get the barrels lined up to load.”

  Bryce smiled. “So, you guys are willing to barter a little work for getting your whisky aged?”

  Brian winked at Gavin. “We’re talking about a kind of partnership. If we help get the place renovated and up to speed, your Dad offered to share his experience and let us help get back to distilling the Highland Dew, as well as maybe some of our own brand.” He grinned. “He even hinted at creating a blend.”

  “We’ll have to wait and see how well you learn before I start giving my secrets away,” Gavin grumbled.

  Bryce looked at both men and said, “I’ll be. Here I was hoping to find a place for you guys to store your product. And pow! You’re working partners.”

  All three men laughed.

  Fiona cleared her throat. “I may be the only one here who thinks this sounds amazingly simple. Isn’t there more to arrange?”

  Gavin patted her arm. “Of course there is, darlin’. That’s what you and the business woman are here to take care of. We’ll work on the whisky and you can figure out the details. See that’s where the ‘MacDougall Family Distillery’ comes in.” He winked.

  Bryce looked at her and smiled. “I guess we have some work to do.”

  Gary stood up. “I think we better head back. We have a lot of packing to do, and don’t forget the meeting with Revenue and Customs. Let us know when you want us back.”

  Brian shook Gavin’s hand. “I’m looking forward to working with all of you. This is such a blessing for me and my family.”

  “Let me walk you out,” Bryce said.

  She looked back as they got to the cars. “I’m really pleased that everything worked out so well. Do you have any questions I can answer?”

  Gary nodded, and Brian stepped closer. “Thanks for setting this up. Gavin is a treasure house of fine information. But I guess I’m not really sure how this will work day-to-day, or what it means for our deal with you.”

  “I think we’re still good. We can use your whisky when you think it’s aged enough, and have it shipped wherever we agree there’s demand. It will still be separate from the Highland Dew. Same goes for their stock.” She leaned back against their car. “I guess I’d like to know how much you’re willing to help and whether you know anyone who can pitch in on the clean-up and renovation. Storing your product won’t be a fair trade for all that needs to be done. Any other work should be compensated, and we’ll get you contracts so you don’t need to worry.”

  Brian and Gary both smiled. “That would be grand! I mean, we both have families to feed, and our whisky can’t last forever.”

  “And don’t forget those important Paddington socks.”

  Gary looked confused, but Brian laughed. “Can we check around for helpers and get back to you? The sooner we get things right, the sooner we can get to making whisky.”

  “Of course. In the meantime, I’ll talk to Tom Hobart at Speyburn and let him know they can combine deliveries when the time comes. Plus, Liam might be a big help when it comes to blending—he’s a pro.”

  “Thanks for all your help.” They both shook her hand and waved as they drove off.

  She typed a couple of reminders into her phone and smiled. A great agreement and beneficial for all. Leo should definitely approve. When she got back to the porch, she found Fiona relaxed with her feet on the railing and her eyes closed. Bryce cleared her throat and Fiona cracked open one eye.

  “You look deserted.” Bryce sat next to her.

  “Dad headed in for a nap. He’s exhausted, but very happy. Who could have imagined this serendipity?”

  “I hoped to help the boys with their whisky and thought they’d enjoy meeting your dad…but this partnership sounds great.” She paused. “Fi, are you okay with this?”

  “Sure. Why wouldn’t I be?”

  “Well, you and your dad seemed to be on a path for him to teach you the business. I hope this won’t affect that. I didn’t mean to butt in.”

  Fiona put her hand out and Bryce took it. “There will be a lot of work and details to be handled before a single drop of whisky comes out of that grand old still. I’m happy to let the young men handle it. When it comes to the family secrets, I’ll be right there at his side soaking them up.”

  “How did you become so wise?”

  Fiona laughed her happy lilt. “Good Lord! I think it’s more resignation. I’m tired of pushing the river. Thanks to you, my dear, our whisky is selling, the bills are paid, and we have new partners to help us.”

  Bryce smiled. It actually seemed like it could all work out even better than she planned. But, there were still phone calls to be made. She stood. “I think I’d better head back to Andrews Manor for a while and get some work done.”

  Fiona laughed. “Is this you taking it easy?”

  Bryce squeezed her shoulder. “I think that may come quite soon, but I need to let Ian, Tom, and Leo know the new game plan.”

  Fiona walked her out to the car. “If you can carve out some time, I’d like to ask a favor.”

  “Of course, what do you need?”

  “Not now.” She kissed her sweetly. “I’ll let you know.”

  ****

  “Hi Margaret, is Leo available?” Bryce had changed into a T-shirt and shorts, and took a can of soda out to the small deck near the kitchen. While the temps stayed in the upper 60s and lower 70s, it was still humid, and mostly cloudy. Comfortable, but a bit sticky.

  “Oh, hi, Bryce. It’s nice to hear from you. Sorry, the boss is in a meeting with the lawyers. How’re you enjoying your overdue holiday?”

  Bryce laughed and spilled the soda on her shorts. “Oddly enough, it’s been crazy busy since I got back, but I think I have some good news about both the Townsend-McClure deal and the MacDougalls. They seem to have teamed up a bit. Could be a win-win.”

  “Sounds like it. I’ll give him the message. I’m sure he’ll call when he can.”

  “Since I have you, how do you think he’s doing?” Bryce didn’t want to add to his worries.

  “He’s doing remarkably well. Even the doctor is surprised. It helped his mood that the quarterlies came in from the San Francisco Regional office and they’re doing well.”

  “I’m sure that’s a relief. Good to catch up, Margaret. Thanks.”

  “You get some rest, Bryce.”

  She flipped off the phone and stuck it in her pocket. Since her unrelenting hunger spasms hadn’t abated, she went back into the kitchen to dig out the baked ham and hard rolls she bought from the market. While she reheated some soup, she sliced the ham and made a sandwich. As she stirred the warming vegetable soup, the memory of Fiona’s kiss teased her. Happily, their relationship had grown closer every day since she’d returned. Friendship had morphed into fondness, and now a physical familiarity that simmered fiercely.

  The past few months had been so consumed by the project that she deliberately refused to indulge the fantasies that monopolized her dreams. The majority of time she believed that eventually she would return to her west coast home and Fiona would go back to teaching. Recently, however, those ideas had reversed. And now with more time to share, they eac
h had the opportunity to explore this wonderful new relationship.

  The bubbling splatters of the soup brought her back to reality. She wiped off the stove, then took her soup and sandwich to the table. The only question that remained was which one of them was going to make the move. She looked around her new home and smiled. “Let it be.”

  Chapter Forty-two

  “Dad, where are you?” Fiona called from the back door.

  He poked his head out the door of the warehouse. “Just here. I wanted to find space for Brian and Gary.” He was spending more time out there since young Amos came by and did a very thorough power wash of warehouse and loading dock.

  She crossed the yard, chuckling. The past couple of weeks flew by in a flurry of planning, phone calls, estimates and bids. Evidently, her dad liked having new pals to hang out with...and bossing them around. “When did they call?”

  “While you were at the store. Brian called and asked if they could make a few trips with some of their whisky. He has some friends with a bigger truck. They don’t have one of those great lorries like Tom does.” He wiped his face with his shirt sleeve.

  “You’re not overdoing it are you?”

  He laughed. “No, I’m just walking around trying to figure where to put a dozen barrels.”

  “That’s quite a few for being so new.” She joined him at the door.

  “That’s about what we did on average when we started. ‘Course, we slowed quite a bit.”

  “Do you miss it, Dad?”

  “Aye, I do. Not so much the hard work, but getting the final taste just right. That’s pure joy.”

  “How do you know when you have it?” She followed him back to the damp storeroom with rows of whisky barrels standing proudly. The sheer number stunned her. How could they have forgotten?

  “The original recipe from your great-great-grandmother spelled out exactly what the final test should be and what was needed to adjust it. Over the years, it’s just got ingrained that I know by the look, smell, and taste just how to create that exactly.”