Up to No Good

by Tricia O'Malley

  “I’d love to. I think I have a photo print with your name on it.”

  “I’ll put it on my wall proudly. I can tell, you’re a great artist.”

  Chapter 19

  “Is this it?” Lola exclaimed, immediately smitten.

  “Sure is. It’s fun, isn’t it? It just needs some love.”

  “I have all the love to give. Why hasn’t this been snatched up? It looks like it’s a really good location, too.”

  They’d left Maureen’s shop and walked down a little cobblestone street peppered with colorful storefronts before turning down a small lane toward the water. There, they’d stopped in front of bright turquoise hut, with brilliant green shutters and a thatched palm roof. Just steps from the sea, it looked like the sort of spot people would pause to take photos of as they wandered past. Lola immediately imagined putting a few chairs and benches outside under the shade of the palm trees that ringed the hut, and perhaps offering coffee or wine so people could relax and browse art while also enjoying a view of the sea.

  “It’s an excellent location. Especially in high season – everyone strolls right past this spot,” Miss Maureen said, sliding a key into the green arched door, a detail that Lola loved. There was something about an arched door, or arches in a room, that just added character to a place. Swinging the door open, Miss Maureen swept inside and busied herself unlocking the shutters and pushing them open to let the sunlight spill into the space. “Now, you’ll probably want to put some screens on these windows, just to protect your art from those damn curious magpies that like to pop in and take a look. Otherwise, a good cleaning and this would shine up real nice for you.”

  Lola was momentarily speechless as something clicked in place inside of her. This… this was what she’d been looking for. A home of sorts, a place to call her own, a creative haven that could be a home base for her between her curating jaunts around the world.

  The space was much larger than it appeared from the outside, as the hut was really more of a large cottage. With whitewashed walls, high wooden ceilings with huge bamboo fans, and a worn wood floor, the options for the space were endless.

  “Now, back here you’ve got a bathroom and a separate room. I’d likely use this room for keeping stock, maybe a mini-fridge, your office space, and so on,” Miss Maureen said from where she poked her head out of a back room.

  “It’s perfect,” Lola breathed, crossing the room to see the ample space in the back room. “Could I serve coffee or wine?”

  “Sure, so long as you get the permit for it. No reason not to. Let’s look at that bathroom and make sure it’s not in a state of disrepair.”

  Lola peeked her head in the bathroom. It wasn’t huge, but it had all the necessary features. With a coat of paint and a pretty mirror, it would be nice enough for guests.

  “Well, he’s kept this up nicer than I thought. So?”

  “I want it. I don’t know if I can afford it, though, I’ll admit. A waterfront space like this – what’s the cost? Or do I even want to know?” Lola held her breath as she looked at Miss Maureen.

  “Let’s call him and see, shall we?”

  Lola nodded, wandering the space, imagining how she’d light the one wall that was perfect for paintings, and where she’d put some low-slung tables for collectibles and art pieces in another. She knew she couldn’t afford to buy it, but could she afford the rent?

  “Prince says the rent is five hundred dollars a month until you get up and running, then it goes to seven-fifty. Utilities not included, and you better watch those, child – air conditioning is expensive here. Make sure you get those screens up; if the windows are open, you’re likely to catch a nice breeze here.” Miss Maureen chattered on, but Lola stopped her.

  “Prince? This is Prince’s property?” Lola thought of the fisherman in his ripped pants and faded cap.

  “Don’t let that man fool you with his ‘I’m just a poor fisherman’ act – he owns loads of property on this island. It’s why he can fish all day and sit in the sunshine,” Miss Maureen chuckled. “Everyone knows, if you want a good property, go to Prince.”

  “But… this property is prime. I mean, not only am I surprised it’s not already rented out, but the rent is exceptionally low for a commercial space. I’m sure it has to cost more.”

  “He’s particular about this property. He doesn’t like just anybody in here. He’s kept it empty for a while now, waiting for the right person. The money doesn’t matter to him. If he likes you, he’ll give you a fair deal. And that’s a fair price he quoted you. Some places, I tell you, they charge double that for off the sea. You’d be foolish not to take it.” Miss Maureen nodded her head sharply.

  “I absolutely will take it. How do I secure the lease?”

  “I’ll speak to him. You come ’round end of the week and we’ll have everything drawn up.”

  “Are you good friends with Prince? Or do you manage his properties?”

  “He’s my uncle! And I manage just about everything for that man, which is why I don’t pay no rent at my store.” Miss Maureen chuckled again. “In fact, I should be charging him for what I do for him.”

  “I can’t… this is just amazing,” Lola breathed. “Mind if I take a few photos? For inspiration?”

  “You go right on and take your photos. I’ll call Prince back.”

  “Tell him thank you for me, please.”

  “I will, but if you’d like, he’s partial to that spiced rum they sell down at the multi-shop. I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt to get him a bottle.”

  “Noted,” Lola said. She wandered around the room, capturing photos from all angles and letting her mind run free. She turned a full circle, and stopped, beaming as she looked toward the front. From where she stood, with the door and windows thrown open, she had unobstructed views of the brilliant blue sea. To stand here, every day, and look out at that? It would be a dream come true.

  “This is it,” Lola said, nodding to the building. The energy was positive in the space, the breezes were nice, and the sea was at her front doorstep. “This is what I’ve been dreaming of. I can make this work.”

  “Well, sure you can. This spot is meant for you. Even I can see that,” Miss Maureen said, interrupting Lola’s little monologue and startling her.

  “I’m glad you have faith in me. I’m going to need it.”

  “Even better? You have a friend to help.” Miss Maureen pointed to her chest and Lola beamed, overcome by her kindness.

  “I certainly appreciate it, Miss Maureen. And may I invite you to be my first featured artist?”

  Miss Maureen threw her head back and laughed, clapping her hand to her thigh.

  “A featured artist! Now isn’t that something? If that’s the case, then I absolutely accept.”

  “It’s a deal.”

  Chapter 20

  Lola spent the afternoon zipping around the entire island on her scooter, taking endless photos, and stopping by Prince’s to drop off a bottle of rum for the pleased fisherman. Now, she itched to get back home – back to wifi – to send photos off to her mother and see if she could get in touch with Sam.

  Stopping in front of the B&B, Lola parked her scooter and jumped off, hurrying so fast toward the stairs she almost barreled over Irma.

  “Oh! I’m sorry, I didn’t see you there,” Lola laughed, coming up short.

  “No bother. Is everything okay?”

  “It’s amazing. And I can’t wait to share with you, but I have to run upstairs first and do a few things. May I take the three of you to dinner? As a celebration? My treat.”

  “I’m not sure what we’re celebrating, but yes, that would be lovely.”

  Lola bounded up the stairs and dumped her knapsack on the bed. Shooting off a quick message to her mom with pictures attached, she dialed Sam, hoping her friend had cell service wherever she was.

  “Lola!” Sam gushed. “I’ve been dying to hear from you. I’m so mad – we’ve been out of cell phone range on this boat.”


  “I figured you didn’t have service.”

  “You could’ve emailed me,” Sam pouted. “How’s the island? I can’t believe you’re there and I’m not. I’m missing out on precious Lola time. I miss you so much!”

  “Well, about that…”

  “What? What’s going on?” Sam said, hyper-alert.

  “It looks like you’re not going to have to worry too much about how much time you have with me, because – well, I’m signing a lease on a shop here and I’m going open a gallery.” Lola gulped. There, she’d said it. That made it a reality.

  The silence on the other end of the phone went on for so long that Lola pulled it away from her ear to look at the screen. Then a high-pitched squeal had her holding it even further away from her face. She could hear a man’s voice in the background, and Sam telling him to hush, before she brought the phone closer.

  “Shut up, shut up, shut up! Are you freaking kidding me? Please tell me this isn’t some weird delayed April Fool’s joke. I’ll kill you if it is. Oh my god, that would be amazing. To have my best friend here? Please say yes, please say yes!”

  “Yes, it’s true. It’s real. I’m doing it.”

  Another squeal. “I’ll stop screaming in your ear, I promise. But this is the best news I’ve had in ages, I swear it is.”

  “I’ll have to fill you in, but you know how restless I’ve been lately?”

  “I do, yes. I thought it was just a passing mood of yours.”

  “So did I. But I visited a psychic in Italy with my mom.”

  “Naturally,” Sam said, knowing Lola’s proclivity for seeking out divination.

  “And she put it in my head that it might be time for me to bring all my talents under one roof. So, it got me thinking and ever since I’ve arrived, it’s just been spinning in my head what that would look like. And I think it’ll just be a hodgepodge gallery and home goods space, with my stuff, local stuff, and other goods sourced from my travels. Maybe I could have some photography or painting classes a few nights a week, offer a glass of wine to visitors while they sit outside by the sea –”

  “Wait. By the sea? Did you find a spot already?”

  “I did. It’s called the coconut hut. Just past the little downtown?”

  “The blue building with the gorgeous green shutters? That’s a fantastic spot. Lola, it’s going to be amazing! You can even do a paint and wine night! Oh, this is perfect. I’m so happy right now I could dance.” Sam laughed through the phone and Lola felt warmth rush through her at her joy. This same time last year, Sam had been broken down, defeated, and lackluster about life. On edge, overworked, and full of anxiety, she’d found her way to Siren Island on Lola’s suggestion – and her entire life had changed because of that trip. To hear how carefree and happy her voice was now was a balm to Lola’s soul. It was what she had wanted for her friend for so long.

  “I know. I can’t believe it myself. But it all feels right,” Lola said. She heard Sam talking to someone before returning to the call.

  “Lola, I have to run. We’re getting on this sunset tour thingy. I love you and I’ll see you soon. I’m so proud of you!”

  “I love you too,” Lola said and then Sam was gone. She hadn’t gotten a chance to tell her about Gage, but there was more than enough time for that. It wasn’t like things were going anywhere with him anyway, but still. Girlfriends shared such things.

  Hopping in the shower, she took a quick rinse and then, on impulse, decided to wear Miss Maureen’s mermaid dress. It might be a little provocative for dinner with friends, but she figured the island dress code was fairly loose. Pulling it over her head, she tied the straps around her neck and studied herself in the mirror. Miss Maureen was right, she did indeed look like a shimmery mermaid. The dress hugged her in all the right places and sparkled from the silver beads sewn amongst all the blues of the dress. The back dipped low, but when Lola turned in the mirror, it did amazing things for her, so she didn’t mind. Wearing a bra was out of the question, but if she tied the straps tight enough, it looked like everything stayed in place.

  Settling her power necklace – as she’d started calling it – over her head, Lola smiled at herself in the mirror. It was about as close to looking like a mermaid as she’d ever get, she thought.

  “Welcome to Siren Moon Gallery,” Lola whispered, and then laughed out loud. Leaving her room, she went down the steps. Not sure where Irma was, she tapped lightly on the door for the kitchen.

  “Come in,” Irma called, and Lola slid the door open.

  “Well, well, well, don’t you look yummy?” Jolie asked from where she leaned against the counter, sipping a white wine.

  “Thank you. Miss Maureen made it for me. It’s a little provocative, but I figured – who cares? It’s pretty.”

  “It is indeed. And you’re lucky to have her make you something. She does beautiful work,” Mirra said.

  “Will you both join us for dinner as well?” Lola asked.

  “We’d love to. Where would you like to go?”

  “Can we try out Lucas’ restaurant? The one with the swings at the bar? I’ve heard Sam talk about it and I’d love to go.”

  “Perfect. I’m ready when you are,” Irma said, and the girls all nodded.

  “Oh…” Lola stopped short. “Should we call a taxi? I only have my scooter.”

  “I’ll drive us. That’s fine,” Irma said, and they left the kitchen and piled into the truck.

  “What are we celebrating?” Jolie demanded on the drive to town.

  “I’ll tell you over dinner. It’s a surprise,” Lola said, just because she liked annoying Jolie.

  “Hmpf. Maybe I should have stayed home,” Jolie grumbled, and Irma poked her leg.

  “Don’t get grumpy when people don’t immediately do what you want.”

  “Yeah, Jolie; anyway, she’s only doing it because she knows it annoys you,” Mirra pointed out. Jolie swiveled to glare at Lola.

  “Is that true?”

  “It is,” Lola grinned, unapologetic.

  “I knew I liked you,” Jolie said, her annoyance forgotten.

  The restaurant was charming, with a great island vibe, and was quite busy. The swing chairs by the bar were a particular favorite, and Lola could understand why. They were fun and whimsical – part of the reason why she so enjoyed sitting in the one on her porch at the B&B.

  Luckily, they were able to find a table and the waiter, knowing Irma, quickly brought them a pitcher of sangria. They poured their glasses, then Lola leveled a look at Jolie.

  “So, I’d like to announce that I’m going to open an art gallery here,” Lola said.

  The women all exclaimed at once, but Lola held up her hand to shush them for a moment. “I think I’d like to call it Siren Moon Gallery. It will have everything from my personal art to local art to home goods and jewelry sourced from around the world. Sort of a hodgepodge of whatever my mood is. But I’d like to theme it a bit on mermaids, or at least the lessons they can teach us. Every few months the theme could be something like sensuality or confidence, and I would pick designs based on that. At least that’s what I’m thinking. And maybe do a wine and paint night one night a week. Things like that.”

  “Absolutely you should. It’s going to be a hit. I love the name too. Where will it be?” Irma asked, raising a glass in a cheers to Lola.

  “Do you know the coconut hut?”

  “Yes! That’s a perfect spot. Oh, I’m so excited,” Mirra exclaimed. “I bet Sam is too.”

  “She screamed so loud I had to hold the phone away from my ear,” Lola admitted.

  “Well, then, may we be the first to welcome you to Siren Island.”

  “Oh, that just gave me shivers.” Lola laughed, clinking glasses with them. “I know this may seem impulsive. But it just feels right. I’ve been needing something like this, a passion project. I don’t know… I just – yeah, I’m really excited.”

  “Did Prince give you a good deal?” Irma asked, her eyes shrewd.


  “He did. He’s very sweet.”

  “Good. I was going to give him a good talking-to if he hadn’t.”

  Jolie’s eyes grew sharp and then narrowed at something over Lola’s shoulder.

  “What?”

  “Don’t…” But Jolie trailed off when Lola turned and saw what Jolie had seen. Gage was crossing the restaurant with a stunning woman – blonde, slim, and poured into an even tighter dress than the one Lola was currently wearing. His hand at her back, he guided her into her seat and motioned for the waiter.

  “Jerk,” Jolie decided.

  “He is not a jerk.” Lola sighed, pinching her nose and annoyed at herself for being bothered by it. “Remember? We’re not dating.”

  “He kissed you,” Mirra said, her eyes soft with worry.

  “So what? That isn’t exactly a marriage proposal. Listen, ladies, thank you for your concern, but it’s fine. Truly. I travel the world constantly, and I take lovers as I see fit. This is part of the deal. It’s okay. Plus, I’m too excited about my new adventure to care much.”

  “And if you’re not interested in anything with him, then it’s best not to get involved. Though I’m pretty sure that’s his work colleague. But I digress,” Irma said. “Islands are essentially small towns. Everybody knows everybody else’s gossip. No need to get tangled in the coconut telegraph if you don’t have to.”

  “See? Even better. Now let’s talk paint colors,” Lola said, wanting to steer them away from the topic of Gage.

  But it took everything in her power not to glance back over her shoulder and see what he was doing.

  Chapter 21

  “Ladies, don’t you all look lovely this evening?”

  Lola almost rolled her eyes when she heard Gage’s voice at their table. Deciding on restraint, she smiled up at him.

  “Thank you, we most certainly do,” Jolie purred.

  “It isn’t often that I see you out on the town. What’s the occasion?” Gage asked, and Lola tried to ignore the tug of attraction she felt for him. He looked particularly good this evening in a white linen shirt, the sleeves rolled up his tanned forearms, and pressed green pants. She missed seeing the necklace at his throat, but it reminded her of where she’d last seen it.