Huaka'i: The Dark Haired Woman (Book II)

By David VerValin

HUAKA'I (The Dark Haired Woman) is far more than the story of a boy and his boat. It is a tribute to the human spirit, to the courage of a young man willing to chase his dream even then those dreams are waylaid by love, loss, war, and rabbit trails he never expected to find along the journey that has been his lifelong dream. From the tumult of t

• Language: English
• Publisher: Writers Branding LLC
• Release date: Jan 14, 2021
• ISBN: 9781954341135

Book preview

Acknowledgments

Without the support of several people and organizations, I would not have completed this book.

First, thank you to the Sparkman and Stephen (S&S) Company for the information on the boat I used in the story. Voyager, as mentioned in the book, is roughly modeled after the S&S sailboat, Weekender, a vessel whose size and time of construction fit the story perfectly. Gentlemen, please forgive me for taking some liberties with the boat operation in the name of fiction. I did try to maintain a realistic view of your fine boat’s remarkable characteristics whenever possible. Not only have you launched some extraordinary boats into the water, but you can be sure that you have also given this story the gumption to set sail.

I would also like to thank The Historical Society of Cairns North Queensland Inc. for providing me with piles of information on the life and times of Cairns during WWII. I hope I have aptly described your fair city as it existed then and that I have adequately reflected on the war year issues as they affected the Cairns population and growth.

Next, a special thanks to the men and women who support PT Boat Inc. at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts, particularly to those who frequent the message boards. The organization and the boards are a real tribute to the men who served on the boats during our country’s finest hour. Thank you for your support and assistance.

I must extend my deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to my family. My sister Linda and mother Lorraine were among the first to read the rough draft and encouraged me to go on. To my daughter Amy, thank you for tackling the difficult task of editing the first rough copy. Also, a thank you and a hug to Astrea, who did a great job in editing and cutting the story down to a more manageable size. Finally, thanks to Rosemarie Martindale for creating the maps, and especially to Autumn Conley, who did a wonderful job editing the book. Her professionalism and attention to detail are outstanding.

Prologue

By August of 1944 the war in the Pacific was in full swing. The Japanese Navy had been pushed back through most of the area they had conquered in ‘41’ and ‘42’. Still, the fighting was becoming more intense as the Japanese realized that the war was going badly for them plus the loss of men and material was becoming critical to their war effort. For the U.S. Navy on the other hard, things were looking better. The loss of manpower was a major factor in consideration for all the commanders and particularly the people back home questioning the number of casualties on a daily basis. But equipment was now plentiful and superior to the enemies. Even the PT Boats had been upgraded with radar, new more powerful engines and heavy weapons. For Squadron 10 Mios Woendi Island was just one of many islands they would fight from during the war, but for the 165 boat and particularly, its Captain Bane Skiles it would be the beginning of another part of his life. A part that would have a major impact on him forever.

Chapter 1

July 6, 2015 Kalama Retirement Community, Maui Hawaii

Bob Wise, and news reported for the Maui News had been listening to a story being told by old man Skiles, a World War two vet who Captained a PT Boat in the South Pacific. The story was proving to be captivating and he was eager to her the rest. Old man Skiles rolled his wheelchair to the window he had been looking out of and began.

I remember that I had just lost the only picture I had of April, and I was pissed.

August 5, 1944—Drager Harbor, New Guinea

Bane walked into his hut at 17:00, disgusted that he’d lost April’s picture and wondering at the same time what to say to Judith the woman he had just saved from drowning. It was all too much too fast. He’d clearly confused Judith with his gibberish and, quite frankly, he was confused himself. The more he thought about what to tell her, the more frustrated he became. He decided to take a shower and lie down for an hour before he headed over to the nurses’ hut to tell them the short version of his very long story.

At the gals’ hut, the ladies sat on their bunks, talking about Judith’s dilemma.

One thing’s for sure. As cute as the guy is, he has a lot of talking to do,

Joanna said, lying back on her bunk.

I think I’d rather see him alone, Judith blurted out. What!? the girls yelled.

He saved my life, so I’m sure he’s not dangerous. He’s obviously got something to say to me, and I want him to get it off his chest. He’s not gonna be able to talk to me while everybody else is listening.

That’s why we decided to sit inside the tent, where we can listen, Adrienne said. If you need us, we can be there in a second.

Okay, Judith said. I guess that’ll work.

At the promised time, Bane headed for the nurses’ hut. He hadn’t seen any of his crew since the party, and he assumed they were at the boat. At any rate, he didn’t want to see anyone at the moment. He turned a corner around the back of the hospital and followed the trail that led to the hospital staff housing area. He spotted Judith standing in the shade, alone, just outside the hut door. He hoped they would have some privacy. Here he comes, someone in the tent said.

Bane walked up to the tent, and Judith rose to meet him. Is it all right if we talk here? she asked.

Sure, Bane answered.

Judith sat next to the hut on a canvas stool, and Bane sat across from her on a tree stump.

Bane took a deep breath. Look . . . I thought I’d try to make this quick, but I’m afraid if I do, it won’t make much sense to you. To tell you the truth, I’m not sure if either of us will be any wiser when I’m finished. Bane took another deep breath and looked Judith in the eye. My name is Bane Skiles. I’m from Lahaina, Hawaii. He stopped for a second, captured by Judith’s beauty. My grandmother can foresee the future. She’s not always right, but she has her moments. I thought I should tell you that, because it may help to explain things. After graduation from college, I wanted to sail around the world alone before I settled down. Judith nodded her head.

That was three years ago, Bane added. I got as far as the Marshall Islands before I started having visions . . . of you.

Three years ago? she asked. Yeah, Bane replied.

And what did you see?

Not much, Bane replied, just a woman with long black hair, green eyes, and a birthmark on her leg.

Anything else? Judith asked.

No, Bane answered. In fact, I never saw your face—just your eyes, hair, and, uh . . . stuff. Stuff? Judith said.

Bane realized he needed to be honest. Your figure. You have a cute shape.

Is that so? Judith said.

Yeah, Bane replied, not giving his answer much thought. Anyway, I began to have visions of you about every week, and as time wore on, they included a large red book with gold-trimmed pages, and you were covered in silk, with a gold coin necklace. What else? Judith asked.

That’s it, Bane answered. Well, except a couple times when I envisioned you walking down a beach. When I saw you today, it was strange. You are real, not just a figment of my imagination.

When did you realize I’m this woman of your dreams? Judith asked, trying not to sound too skeptical.

When you opened your eyes, Bane said.

Judith said nothing for a moment as Bane studied her. Did you find the picture of your girlfriend? she asked.

No, Bane replied.

I’m sorry to hear that, Judith replied. Maybe she can send you another. It was a trick, as Judith already knew the answer, but Bane’s answer would tell her whether he was being honest with her or not.

No, she won’t do that, he replied.

I’m sure she would, Judith said, baiting the hook.

Bane stared at Judith, and when his eyes teared up, Judith knew she’d pushed into an area he wished to keep private. She died two years ago, he said softly. We were engaged to be married after the war, but she was killed during the bombing at Darwin.

I’m so sorry, Judith said, ashamed for saddening him. Now you know as much as I do, Bane replied.

What about the book and necklace? Judith asked.

I don’t know, Bane replied. Maybe it just meant I was supposed to save you. In three or four days, my squadron will be moving north. I can’t see how we’ll ever meet again.

Judith sat quietly and watched Bane. She sensed there was more, something he wasn’t telling her. In your visions, did we ever make love? she asked him quietly.

Bane was shocked by her forwardness. Yes, he said. So we were lovers in your dreams? Sometimes, Bane replied.

Did you have these dreams of me while you were engaged?

Yes, Bane confessed. I don’t know why, though, because April was my life.

Is that all? Judith asked.

Yes, Bane said. That’s it.

No, Judith said, shaking her head. There’s more. She stood up. Follow me, she whispered.

She walked quickly down the sidewalk toward the hospital, motioning for Bane to follow her. They turned a corner behind the hospital, out of sight of the hut and watching eyes.

What is it? she asked.

I-I’m not sure, Bane said. I just wanted to remember your face.

Judith stood quietly while Bane gazed into her eyes.

Can I touch your face? he asked.

Only if you close your eyes, she said.

Bane closed his eyes and gently touched her cheek. She was real, soft and smooth. He opened his eyes as Judith opened hers. I-I don’t know what to say, Bane said.

That’s all right. I understand. Are you okay? Judith asked. Yeah, Bane replied. I actually feel much better. Good. Close your eyes again, Judith said.

Bane closed his eyes.

Judith leaped into his arms and gave him a kiss on the lips, then jumped back three feet. I just had to know! she squealed. Know what? Bane asked.

If you were the guy of my dreams, she said. I’ll see you tomorrow at the boat, she said, then ran around the corner of the hospital and back to her hut.

Bane stood motionless. He did feel better, as if a great weight had been lifted from him. He took another deep breath. I wonder what that damn book has to do with this? he said as he walked back to the hut.

Judith ran into her own hut, out of breath.

Well? What happened? the girls interrogated. And why did you leave?

What do you think? Judith asked.

We all think he’s cute, Amy replied.

There’s no question about that, Judith said, but what do you think of his story?

I think it takes a hell of a guy to tell you all that, Adrienne said. So do I, Judith said. You think he’s telling the truth?

Oh yeah, Adrienne answered. Nobody could make up a story like that, especially the part about making love to you while engaged to another woman.

What do you make of that, Judith?

Well, girls, I don’t know why, but something hit me while I was listening to his story. Are you ready for this? Sure! Megan said.

"I believe his visions are clearer than he wants to admit. He was to meet

a dark-haired woman with green eyes and make love to her.

Although he fell in love with another, his vision would not be denied. Are you sure? Deidre asked. How do you know?"

I know because I kissed him. What!? the girls shouted.

Oh my God, Judith! What were you thinking?

I wanted to see if his vision was correct. And?

Joanna prodded.

It is, Judith replied.

Oh, for crying out loud, Judith. They guy’s shipping out in a few days, Deidre said. Hell, you’ll never see him again.

Three days, Judith said solemnly, but I have some faith in his vision and in his grandmother.

His grandmother? Hell, now you’ve lost it, Megan replied. What are you gonna do tomorrow? Amy asked.

I’m gonna let him stew for awhile, think about that kiss. He’ll get the message sooner or later, even if it takes a month.

Bane entered his hut to find the crews lying on their bunks.

Where have you been? Bob asked. We’ve been looking all over for you.

How’s the boat? Bane replied, not eager to answer the question. She’s about ready, Bob answered.

Good. I went over to see Judith.

Who? Bob asked, trying to appear disinterested.

Judith, the gal I pulled out of the water. Oh yeah, Bob said.

We had a nice little talk. She’s a really great gal. Well, we’ll see her tomorrow, Bob said.

Yeah, Bane replied, then he laid down on his bunk with plenty to think and dream about.

At 07:00 hours the next day, Bane was up and heading for breakfast with Bob and Rich only minutes behind him. He entered the dining hall and saw Mark at a table, sitting alone. Knowing it might be his last chance to see his friend; he grabbed a cup of coffee and headed to the table. What time do you leave? Bane asked, taking a seat across from him.

Mark looked at his watch. In an hour. You need anything? Bane asked. No, Mark answered. Did you meet up with that little gal you saved? She sure looks like that gal you described to me once, he whispered, leaning over the table.

Mark, you’re not gonna believe this, but she’s the one. No!

Mark replied.

Yes, Bane said, looking around hall. Right down to the birthmark. No! Mark repeated.

Can you believe it? Bane remarked.

Not really, but what does it mean? Mark asked.

I don’t have the slightest idea, Bane replied. "Well,

I’m sure things will reveal themselves in time. Yeah, I hope so, Bane said. I’m just glad she’s real.

I bet, Mark replied with a smile. So . . . what’s up today? Mark asked. We’re gonna test the new engines, and the radios and radar are being rebuilt. After that, we’re heading north.

I need to stop and say goodbye to the guys on the 173, Mark said, standing.

Good luck, Mark, Bane said.

And good luck to you, Mark answered. He shook Bane’s hand, then turned and walked out of the dining hall. It would be the last time Bane saw him.

Bane sat back in his chair and looked around the room. He noticed that Bob and Rich had come in. What time are the gals coming down to the boat? he yelled.

About 11:00, Rich responded. Does the crew know?

Yes sir. I told them last night at the party.

Bob, give the boat a onceover. Make sure all the girly pictures are stowed away.

What about Honey Lulu? Let’s tack a towel over her.

Okay, Bob said. That’s probably a good idea. I’m heading down to the boat, Bane said.

Yeah, I’m done here, Bob replied.

Me too, Rich said, taking his last sip of coffee. Let’s go.

On deck, the crew was busy cleaning and stowing away gear, trying to make the boat as presentable as possible.

Okay, guys, let’s gather around, Bane said. How we doing, Jim?

I think we’re looking okay. We stowed away all the girly pictures and cleaned up the head.

Good, Bane said. When you’re done, we need to cover up Honey Lulu. Let’s find a towel or blanket to put over her.

Yes sir, Popp replied.

While the ladies are onboard, remember your duties. Let’s at least shove off and tie up without having anybody fall overboard. Make sure the women are in a safe spot. They won’t be used to tight turns, so let’s make sure they’re all seated when we begin the trial run. After that, Bob can give them a tour of the boat. We’ll be out about an hour. Any questions? Yes. What if we get attacked while they’re onboard, sir? Seaman Gilliam asked.

If that happens, get the women below deck and man your stations. For now, let’s get hopping. Bob, take a quick look around and make sure we’re presentable.

Sure, Bob said, then he climbed down and into the chartroom.

A few minutes later, the ladies could be seen walking down the sidewalk, towards the 165.

Oh shit, Rich said. I just remembered they’re too short to hop onboard.

Bane looked across the deck. Gilliam, Elson, help the girls onboard. Yes, sir, Elson replied, hopping to the deck.

Bane looked at his watch; it was 10:50.

One by one, the men lifted the girls onto the boat. They huddled together at the edge, not knowing where to stand.

Bane stepped from the bridge and onto the bow. Ladies, if you could come over here, he said.

The girls followed each other around the chartroom and stood in line across the deck.

Before we start, I’d like to mention a few things. Once we get underway, Bob and Rich will give you a tour of the boat. There are two restrooms below, one forward and one between the XO’s and captain’s quarters. If you begin to feel seasick, let us know. Finally, we’ll be testing our new engines out today, so we’ll be speeding up and slowing down for each of the three engines. When we start the test, we’ll need you all to be seated so you won’t be thrown about. Bane pointed behind him. The bridge is rather small. Two of you can sit there, Bane said, but when his eyes caught Judith’s, he stopped momentarily. The remaining ladies can sit here, on top of the chartroom. You’ll get the best view from here. Any questions?

I have one, Amy said. Sure,

Bane replied.

How fast will we go?

Over forty knots, close to forty-five miles an hour. When none of the girls indicated other questions, he said, Okay. We’ll be shoving off in about ten minutes. If you’d like to walk around for awhile, please do so. The crew will be happy to answer any questions you can think of. Bane headed to the bridge as the ladies began to walk down the portside of the boat. Ochs, do you have the radio codes for today?

Yes sir.

Good. Then call HQ and let ‘em know we’re about to start our test runs.

Aye aye sir, Ochs replied. And Ochs . . .

Yes sir?

When the ladies come down the ladder, help them with their footing. Yes sir.

Are we ready? Bane asked Rich and Bob. All set, Bob replied.

Okay. Let’s go! Bane yelled.

The girls quickly moved toward the front of the boat, and Judith and Deidre hopped on the bridge, smiling.

Good move, ladies, Bob complimented.

The other gals took a seat on the chartroom roof.

Bane signaled the engine room to start the engines. The new Packard sprang to life, the mufflers crackled, and the boat rumbled. Cast off! Bane yelled, glancing at Judith. He signaled for reverse, and the boat shook, causing the girls a little alarm as they caught themselves. Bane pushed the throttle forward, and the boat backed away from its pier. Once clear, Bane signaled for forward. The boat shook again as the props changed direction. Bane pushed the throttle forward just a little and steered toward the open sea.

A seaplane passed in front of the boat, carrying Mansour home.

Bane watched as the plane cleared the water. Rich, why don’t you take over for awhile?

Sure, Rich said.

How are you today? Bane asked, stepping over to Judith. Fine, she replied. How about you?

I’m all right. I was wondering if I could talk to you tonight after we get back.

Sure, Judith replied.

Bane looked about the boat, then scanned the sky. Ochs, he yelled below, tell HQ we’re starting our run. Yes, sir, Ochs replied.

Okay, Rich, let’s see what the engines can do.

Rich signaled to cut engines two and three, and the boat slowed as the engines were set to idle.

Okay, Bane said.

Rich pushed the throttle forward on the number one engine, and the boat picked up speed. The engine roared as the boat began to move faster.

Bane glanced at the girls, who were having a good time as a breeze flowed through their hair. Take it up to its maximum speed and leave it there, he said as he listened to the engine.

Fifteen minutes later, Rich pulled back off on the number one.

Bane looked aft as Boswell rose above the engine room and gave a thumbs up. Okay, he said, let’s see number two.

Rich pushed the number two engine throttle forward, and the engine sprang to life. Within thirty minutes, all three engines had passed their stress test.

How you doin’? Bane asked Judith.

Fine, she said. All of this is quite interesting. Bane smiled. You all right, ladies? he yelled forward.

Great! they yelled back.

Good, Bane said. Does anyone need to use the restroom? No.

Good. Okay, ladies, hold on tight. I’ll take the wheel, Rich. Bane looked at Judith and Deidre. Step up here and grab on, he said. He signaled the engine crew to start the engines, then began to push the throttle forward.

The 165 moved out smartly, the girls all smiling with the thrill.

Bane looked at Judith, her hair flowing behind her. She’s a beautiful woman, he thought. To distract himself from staring, he looked over at his crew. All the men were at their stations and ready. Bob and Rich grabbed hold of the rails. Bane pushed the controls all the way forward, and the boat almost leapt forward quickly, with almost a third of the hull out of the water.

Bane glanced at Judith again and saw her hanging onto the bridge like her life depended on it. He glanced at the gals on the chartroom roof. Their smiles were gone, and they were clinging to each other. He turned the boat slowly to port, then again to starboard and slowed the boat down. What’s wrong? Bob said.

I don’t like the gals just sitting up there. We may throw one off. Let’s see if we can tie them down. Sure, Bob said.

Rich hopped below.

Ladies, Bane replied, I’m afraid we’re gonna have to test the boat at high speeds. We’ll be making some sharp turns, and I’m afraid a few of you could lose your seats. Perhaps if we stretched a rope across you, it would help.

Um . . . okay, Megan replied. Whatever you say, Captain.

Good, Bane replied as Rich came on deck. Give them a couple strands to hold on to.

Once everyone was secure, Bane pushed the controls forward again, this time slowly inching the boat forward until it hit maximum speed. When he banked a hard right, the boat leaned to starboard, its engines pushing the bow through two-foot waves like a hot knife through butter. The boat completed a full circle, and Bane turned to port. The boat leaned to the left, and Bane glanced up to check on Judith; she was smiling. After completing the second circle, Bane slowed the boat down to almost a stop. Then, turning hard to port, he pushed the controls forward. The boat leaned to the left, with its tail sliding around. He completed the half- circle and performed the same test to starboard, then again backed off on the controls. Well? What do ya think? he asked Bob.

She’s fine, Bob said.

What about you, Rich? Bane asked.

I think she’s good to go.

Bane looked on as Boswell gave the customary thumbs up.

That was great! Judith wailed. I had no idea this would be so much fun.

Ladies, we’ve been out for an hour. Would you like to stay a half hour longer?

Yeah, they all replied.

Okay. I’ll tell you what. I’ll let each of you briefly up on the bridge in teams of two. Bob, take two of the ladies and give them a tour of the weapons systems. Rich, take two below and show them the crew’s quarters. I’ll show Judith and Deidre the bridge. We’ll switch every ten minutes.

Rich led Adrienne and Amy below, while Bob took Joanna and Megan and started aft.

Step up here, ladies, Bane said. He gently grabbed Judith by the hand. You have five minutes to drive the boat. Are you kidding? Judith said.

No, Bane replied, stepping back from the wheel. She’s all yours. Excited, Judith grabbed the wheel and looked out across the bow. Oh my God! she said. I’m really driving a PT boat!

As Bane saw the excitement on her face, he felt a chill run through his body. His arm shook, and his muscles quivered. He looked forward and watched the waves disappearing under the bow as it skimmed across the blue-green water.

The next thirty minutes passed by quickly as Bane let each of the women steer the boat for five minutes. Finally, he took the wheel from Megan, and they headed back to shore.

The boat pulled in to the pier, and Bane sounded the engine room to cut the engines. Several of the crew hopped into the pier with the tie ropes as the boat eased to a stop.

Thank you, sir, Deidre said. We had a great time.

Thank you, boys, Amy yelled as the crew waved goodbye.

Bob lowered Judith, the last gal off the boat, to the deck. She turned to Bane and waved, then ran to catch up to the other girls.

Thanks, guys, Bane told his crew. We showed them a good time. Believe me, it was mutual, Ochs said.

Rich, take the boat and fill ‘er up. Bob and I need to give a report to HQ on the engine performance. If the radar is in tomorrow, I’m sure we’ll be heading back into action.

I need two guys to help refill the boat, Rich yelled. I’ll help, Popp said.

Me too, Boswell replied.

The rest of you take the afternoon off, Bane yelled. Then he and Bob hopped from the boat as Rich rang the alarm to start the engines.

By 14:00, the crew was relaxing in their huts or visiting the crews on the other boats. Bane spent his time writing letters home and to Mrs. Downs. While he had a lot to talk about, he didn’t mention that he’d met a dark- haired girl and saved her life. That would have been far too complicated to write about in a short letter. He was confident that she was the woman he’d seen in his visions, but he was also concerned that there was more to the visions than just saving her life. The red book and gold necklace were just as prominent in his dreams as she was. Maybe I can talk to her about it later, he thought, recalling Judith’s kiss.

Chapter 2

August 6, 1944—Mios Woendi, Island

At the nurses’ hut, several of the gals were preparing to begin their first shift at the hospital, but the conversation was far more focused on the adventure they’d had on the 165, as well as its Captain, Bane. Some said, He’s a really nice guy, and others suggested he had hidden issues. Still, none of their opinions really concerned Judith, who was entirely captivated by Bane’s story. The sincerity with which he had told it, and in such vivid detail, had convinced her that there was at least some kind of connection between the two of them. She’d tried to get a good read on him on the boat, but he had treated her no differently than he had the other girls; that only piqued her curiosity. Had he been more forward she would have been suspicious of his intentions, and the other girls would’ve picked up on it immediately. But now he wanted to see her again, and she hoped they could talk about any connections that might exist between them. Judith certainly had plenty of questions. Lying back on her bunk she thought about her next rendezvous with Bane, while all the girls around chattered about him. A few minutes later, Judith sat up.

What’s wrong? Joanna asked.

Nothing, Judith answered. I’m going for a walk, she said. I’ll see you gals at dinner.

Sure, Joanna said, looking at the other girls, puzzled; they all sensed she had something weighing heavy on her mind, but no one wanted to pry.

Judith arose from her bunk and walked out of the hut, then headed straight for Bane’s boat. It was all beginning to bug her, and she couldn’t wait until evening to discuss it with him. A few minutes later, she walked up the pier next to the 165.

Look at this, Ochs said as he dealt cards to the crewmembers who’d remained on the boat. Jesus! Is that a good-looking woman or what? he said.

Jim Popp stood up and walked to the edge of the boat. Can I help you, ma’am? he asked.

I’m looking for Captain Skiles, she answered.

I’m afraid he’s not onboard, Popp said. I believe he’s up at his hut. Okay, Judith said.

Popp could sense the disappointment in her voice. You know where his hut is?

No, but that’s all right, Judith replied.

Hold on, Popp said, hopping onto the pier. I’ll take you up there. Well, I wouldn’t wanna bother him if—

I’m sure he’d be glad to see you, Popp replied with a smile. He’s in Hut 8, but how about I go get him and have him meet you at the dining hall in ten minutes? Popp knew the dining hall would be almost empty at that hour, the perfect public place for a guy and gal to meet without too many prying eyes around.

Judith started to say something, but Popp cut her off again.

Believe me; he’ll wanna talk to you. Okay, Judith said.

They walked down the pier together, then separated. Judith headed for the dining hall and Popp went to Bane’s hut.

He knocked at the hut door, then opened it and stepped inside.

Hi, Popp, Bane said. What’s up?

Popp looked around the hut and saw several other officers lying on their bunks. Sir, could I speak to you on a rather pressing matter?

Sure, Bane replied. He stood up, laid his writing pad down, and stepped outside. What is it, Popp? Is something wrong?"

I wouldn’t put it that way. That good-looking nurse stopped by the boat looking for you, sir—the one who looks like our Honey Lulu. She wants to see you, so I sent her over to the dining hall and told her you’d be there in about ten minutes. I hope that’s all right.

It’s fine, Popp. Thanks, Bane said, slapping Popp on the arm. Sure, Popp replied and turned away with a smile.

Bane ducked back inside the hut.

Is everything okay? Bob asked.

Yeah, Bane said, grabbing his hat. I’ll see you guys at dinner. Outside, Bane walked as quickly as he could to the dining hall. He was glad Judith wanted to see him, because that meant she had some questions. He entered the hall and saw her sitting by herself at a table in the far corner.

Bane removed his hat and walked across the room stopping at the table.

May I sit down? he asked.

Sure . . . please, she said, a little shocked by his formality.

Bane took a seat across the table from her. I’m sorry to disturb you like this. I’m sure you have other important things to do. I . . . well, I know we had plans to meet at six, but I just can’t seem to get this vision of yours out of my mind, and I need to talk to you about it. Also I want to apologize for being so forward yesterday. I shouldn’t have kissed you like that, and I don’t know why I did. I don’t even know you. Please forgive me, she said, blushing a bit.

Bane smiled. I’m glad you wanted to meet. Like you, I’ve also got a lot of questions. For one thing, I don’t know anything about you. I should have tried to get to know you better. But, even though we’re strangers, since I met you, I’ve felt as if a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I can’t explain it. I-I don’t even know what it was, but I feel like I can breathe again. For that reason, I’m so glad that we met. But I think there’s something more to it. I think we oughtta talk about it and see if we’re missing something.

Okay, Judith said. So . . . what can you tell me about this red book? Wait, Bane said. I’d like to know more about you.

It was a question a guy would ask a girl he was interested in, and Judith knew it. Still, she wondered if he might just be asking because of the visions he’d been having, so she decided there was no harm in telling him a little about herself. Well, I’m from Washington, D.C. My dad work’s for the government accounting office, and my mother is a nurse. I guess that’s why I went into nursing. I graduated from the Georgetown University School of Nursing in 1942, then enlisted in the Navy, much to my dad’s dismay. After basic training, I was sent to Los Angeles, and I worked at the Navy hospital for a year. They requested volunteers to serve in the Pacific, and since I’d always wanted to see the islands, I signed up. Three months later, here I am. It’s not what I thought it would be, but I’m glad I’m here.

What did you think it would be like? Bane asked.

Well . . . Judith said with a smile. I know not all the islands are like Hawaii, but when I signed up, that was what I was dreaming about. Your dad wasn’t pleased that you’d joined the Navy? Not at all, Judith replied, then stopped.

Bane could sense there was something else, but he gave her time to weigh her words.

Judith thought for a moment. She didn’t mind sharing some things with Bane, but she didn’t want to explain her whole life. Look, she said, my name is Judith Steinman. As you probably guessed, I’m Jewish. Bane sat back in his chair, a bit shocked that she had such strong feelings about it.

Actually, my dad’s Jewish, but my mother is Christian. My dad came to the United States from Germany, after World War I, still speaking German. He’s a wonderful man but a little Old World. He wanted me to stay at home and marry a nice Jewish boy. And you didn’t want that? Bane replied.

I want to see the world, Judith said.

Me too, Bane replied. I don’t know if it means anything, but my dad’s Christian, and my grandparents are converts, I guess you could say, but they still put a lot of stock in the old Hawaiian deities, and so do I. Judith was somewhat taken aback.

Judith, I don’t care about your religious affiliations, Bane continued. There are many paths to God. My grandfather feels God is everywhere and that if you let your soul free, you can connect to Him. I think he’s right. Someday, I’ll find out more about his thoughts on God, but that’s my personal choice. The journey you take is your own. What is of interest to me is that our paths have crossed. I’d like to know why, if there’s some common thread.

Judith pondered Bane’s words for a moment. As brief as his summation of religion was, it was a relief to her that he didn’t care about her personal religion; clearly, Bane looked beyond that, to a person’s actual character, and she already liked that about him.

Do you have any brothers or sisters? Bane asked. No, Judith replied. How about you? Nope, Bane said.

Several officers entered the dining hall, and Judith became uneasy as they glanced in her direction.

How about we move to the beach, where we can have a little more privacy? Bane suggested.

I’d like that, Judith replied. She stood from her seat and walked to the door with Bane in tow.

Outside, they walked through the palm trees and onto the beach without saying a word to each other.

As they stepped onto the sand, the wind blew through Judith’s long black hair; she combed it back behind her neck, smoothing it with her hand. So . . . what do you think this means? And please be open and truthful.

Of course, Bane replied, but the truth is, I’ve got no idea.

Judith laughed.

I’m serious, Bane said, wearing an expression that indicated that. He stopped and looked at her. I try not to interpret these things. My grandmother once told me it’s easy to misinterpret the vision and that we should let it play itself out, keeping an eye for, uh . . . signs.

And what about this book and golden necklace? Judith asked. Do they have any meaning to you?

No, Judith answered. None whatsoever. Me neither.

So . . . where does this leave us? Judith asked as they walked on.

Bane pointed to the tree stand where he’d been when he’d first seen her flailing in the ocean. We’re back to where we started, he said.

They walked over to the tree and sat below it, resting their backs against its curving trunk.

I know this is a lot to take in. Believe me, it’s all new to me as well . . . but you asked me to be honest. So let me say something, and then I’d like your thoughts on it. I’ve gotta believe we were meant to meet, and I think there’s more to the vision than me saving your life. I mean, if that was the sole purpose, why did I see more? I think we’re supposed to talk to each other, though I don’t know what we’re supposed to talk about.

Do you believe your visions will come true? Judith asked. I don’t know, Bane replied.

Well, much of it has, Judith responded.

Yes, Bane answered, but I’d be interested to know your thoughts. Judith lay back against a tree and closed her eyes. Frankly, I feel as if I’m being thrown into your dreams, and I don’t want to go there. You mentioned some mysterious tryst, when we made love together. It’s a little . . . awkward.

I didn’t say that, Bane quietly added.

Yes you did, Judith replied. Just yesterday, you told me you had visions of it, more than once. I don’t even know you. In a few days or weeks, you’ll be gone, and we’ll probably never see each other again, so how can all that be true?

I-I don’t know, Bane replied. I’m not looking for a relationship, if that’s what you’re worried about. Bane said. In fact, it’s the last thing I need.

Of course not, Judith said, and neither am I. You lost your fiancée two years ago, but you’re still carrying her in your heart and won’t let go. You think you have put your love for her behind you, but you really haven’t. That weight you felt was her hold on you, and it lifted because seeing me gave you something else to believe in, a vision of the future, a confirmation of your dreams. But those dreams aren’t mine.

Bane sat in silence. If that’s what she thinks, he thought to himself, she’s got it all wrong. Bane started to speak up and tell her so, but Judith interrupted him.

I don’t know what to do, she said. I believe you’ve seen me in your visions, but I don’t know what to do about that, if anything.

Bane