Portersville: From the Shadows

By Daryl Haskew

Portersville: From the Shadows carries the reader throughout the total spectrum of emotions ranging from good to the most evil. The book will challenge the reader with total despair and unlimited happiness. Through characters with unexpected power, the reader will cheer as good finds a way to prevail in the face of unspeakable evil.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: May 27, 2024
• ISBN: 9798350952377

Daryl Haskew

Lifetime resident of Alabama gulf coast. Graduate of Spring Hill College, U.S. Army Veteran, construction worker, charter boat mate, competitive sailor, powerlifting coach, charter member of Alabama Powerlifting Hall of Fame and public school teacher for 25 years. 20 years of teaching was with special needs students. I am blessed with a wonderful family beginning with my wife, Brenda, who retired after 35 years in public education as teacher, coordinator, and National Director for Talents Unlimited. My two children, both graduates from University of South Alabama live nearby. Also, four grandchildren all live nearby and attend University of South Alabama, University of Alabama Birmingham, University of West Florida. I am blessed to have a wonderful family to support my writing adventure. ng, fishing, travel, and caring for tree farm.

Book preview

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, events, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Portersville: From the Shadows © 2024 Daryl Haskew

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Print ISBN: 979-8-35095-236-0

eBook ISBN: 979-8-35095-237-7

Contents

Preface

Preface Early December

Chapter 1 The Rolston Grand Opening

Chapter 2 Jeanne

Chapter 3 Fireworks

Chapter 4 Omen

Chapter 5 Time to Sleep and Dream

Chapter 6 Five Points – New York

Chapter 7 Hendrick Hudson

Chapter 8 Monk and Kitty

Chapter 9 Muscle Memory

Chapter 10 Smut

Chapter 11 The Search

Chapter 12 Escape

Chapter 13 Quiet Time with Father

Chapter 14 Morning on the Queen

Chapter 15 Tiger

Chapter 16 The Hunt

Chapter 17 New Friends, Spirits, and Selena

Chapter 18 Back to Work

Chapter 19 Cool Snap

Chapter 20 First Friend

Chapter 21 Tony in Mobile

Chapter 22 Tony Makes Friends

Chapter 23 Spring Hill Football

Chapter 24 Aldo to Chicago

Chapter 25 Disguises

Chapter 26 Spirits

Chapter 27 Hunter’s Moon

Chapter 28 Big Mike

Chapter 29 John and Dario

Chapter 30 Cold Blooded

Chapter 31 Aldo Meets Charlotte

Chapter 32 Shadows

Chapter 33 Good and Bad

Chapter 34 Evil

Chapter 35 In Search of Death

Chapter 36 Beat Down

Chapter 37 Bear Speaks

Chapter 38 Search

Chapter 39 Tracking

Chapter 40 Trap

Chapter 41 Return to the Gut

Chapter 42 Brotherhood

Chapter 43 Return to Portersville

Chapter 44 Squeak

Chapter 45 Fear of the Unknown

Chapter 46 New Light

Chapter 47 Darkness

Chapter 48 Answer to Prayers

Chapter 49 Becks

Chapter 50 The Week before Christmas

Chapter 51 Dreamscape

Chapter 52 Evil Eye

Chapter 53 Nkisi

Chapter 54 South Bound

Chapter 55 Homecoming

Chapter 56 Christmas Eve

Chapter 57 Silent Night

Chapter 58 Christmas Day

Chapter 59 Utopia

Chapter 60 Faded Hope

Chapter 61 Reprieve

Chapter 62 Line in the Sand

Chapter 63 Test

Chapter 6 Cat Eyes

Chapter 65 Letters

Chapter 66 Alignment

Chapter 67 Beware Whom You Pursue

Chapter 68 Fire in the Sky

Chapter 69 From the Shadows

Chapter 70 The Arrival

Chapter 71 Gloom and Doom

Chapter 72 An Extraordinary Evening

Chapter 73 Waning Moon

Chapter 74 Friends and Enemies

Chapter 75 The Village

Chapter 76 The Big Day

Chapter 77 Predators

Chapter 78 Juxtapositions

Chapter 79 From the Shadows

Chapter 80 Gone Fishing

Chapter 81 Don’t Run Away! Run Toward!

Chapter 82 Middle Bay

Chapter 83 Bullies

Chapter 84 Voices

Chapter 85 Contrast

Chapter 86 Heavy Hitters

Chapter 87 Before Dawn

Chapter 88 Howard’s Hotel

Chapter 89 Predator Becomes Prey

Chapter 90 Mooch

Chapter 91 Loyalty

Chapter 92 Day Break

Chapter 93 Choice

Chapter 94 Countdown

Chapter 95 Plans

Chapter 96 Storm Warning

Chapter 97 Clean Up

Chapter 98 Reality

Chapter 99 New Plan

Chapter 100 Compassion

Chapter 101 Firepower

Chapter 102 Watchers

Chapter 103 The Bond

Chapter 104 Storm Clouds Brewing

Chapter 105 Reprieve and Preparation

Chapter 106 Pick a Side

Chapter 107 Ambush

Chapter 108 Equinox

Chapter 109 Preparations

Chapter 110 Train Ride

Chapter 111 Darkness

Chapter 112 Right Versus Wrong

Chapter 113 Marooned

Epilogue

Acknowledgements

Preface

Rolston Hotel front lawn

Permission from: The Doy Leale McCall Rare Book and Manuscript Library. University of South Alabama

Rolston Hotel

Permission from: The Doy Leale McCall Rare Book and Manuscript Library. University of South Alabama

Preface

Early December 1909

An eerie winter storm turned daylight into shadows and tightened its grasp around the city. A solitary figure walked across the Spring Hill College campus toward a small building nestled between a large azalea bush and a statue of The Virgin Mary. Leonidas Papatonis stood in front of his mailbox for the second time that day. Although his heart ached to receive a letter scented with Charlotte’s perfume, he was afraid to open his mailbox.

For months, the box had remained empty. His letters to Columbia College went unanswered. Phone calls yielded no results. Charlotte Devane and Vivian Holiday had disappeared on July 4, 1909.

***

The vestibule was freezing … so cold that his breath frosted and hovered in the air. The storm raged outside. Wind-driven ice crystals clattered against the windowpanes. Steam pipes clanked and groaned inside the old building.

Today, the mailbox was not empty. Leonidas quickly retrieved the small package, stuffed it in his pocket, and sprinted toward his dormitory.

Light shined under his door while Leonidas stood listening to his heartbeat and to the familiar sounds of dorm life. Laughter, music, and doors slamming reverberated through the empty hallway. A shadow moved across the threshold. Bill Strong was pacing around his room practicing for speech class. With each mistake, he cursed himself. Leonidas listened for a few minutes to his roommate’s voice before knocking on the door. After a blast of profanity, Bill unlocked and snatched open the door. What? Lost your key again? Bill growled. The sorrow in Leonidas’s eyes softened his tone. Come in. You’re letting the heat out. No letter?

Just this. Leonidas opened his hand, revealing a small package wrapped in wrinkled brown paper.

Who’s it from?

I don’t know, but it smells like cigar smoke, whispered Leonidas. The address looks like a kid wrote it. I can’t seem to open it. My hands are shaking.

Gimme it, said Bill. Okay. Post marked New York, so somebody knows where you live. Bill slipped his thumb under a corner of the package. The paper and cardboard ripped. A silver locket fell to the floor.

Leonidas’s heart stopped. He reached up to clinch an identical locket hanging around his own neck. Blood rushed from his face.

There’s something else in here, Leonidas. A newspaper article torn from the New York Times.

Leonidas bent to pick up the locket as Bill read aloud from the newspaper.

Woman’s body found in East River. Her identity is unknown due to a shotgun blast to her face. This murder is currently under investigation.

Leonidas studied the locket in his hand and grasped it tightly. This is Charlotte’s locket! This is Charlotte’s locket! Our initials are engraved on the back. This is Charlotte’s locket!

Leonidas tightened his grip on the locket, turned toward the door, and screamed.

Chapter 1

The Rolston Grand Opening

On July 4, 1909, Portersville experienced an extraordinary event. The Rolston Hotel located on Portersville Bay opened its doors to the public. People from all around attended the grand opening. Politicians, including the Governor of Alabama, local celebrities, entertainers, and sports heroes gathered, each honoring their invitation from John Rolston.

Although damage from the 1906 hurricane was still evident, memories of the tragedy had begun to fade away. Portersville’s bright skies, blue water and gentle waves made believing that such a monster had attacked this pristine bay front difficult. Now bands played and visitors danced and ate far more food than they should.

Two schooners departed each hour for scenic voyages around the bay, while smaller skiffs moored to the end of the pier provided more private excursions along the bayou. Portersville’s waters attracted swimmers of all ages. Hundreds of bathers waited their turn to jump into the salty bay from platforms attached to the huge bath house only to climb the ladder and wait their turn again.

At night fireworks exploded in the skies, reflecting on the smooth surface of the bay and echoing throughout the savannah to the north. The Bay Shore Railroad, consisting of one train car for luggage and eight for passengers, ran nonstop from the Mobile station to the whistle stop behind the Rolston Hotel. Visitors without rooms were welcome to spread blankets on the grass and sleep under a canopy of stars while enjoying the gentle breeze and serenade of night birds. Their alternative was to catch the Bay Shore back to Mobile after the fireworks.

***

John Rolston, agricultural broker and owner of the hotel, and his wife sat in large rocking chairs on the front porch, eyes filled with the spectacle unfolding before them. The Bay Shore whistle sounded behind hurricane-tattered pines as it approached the whistle stop behind the Rolston. Wagons waited to transport luggage and a load of eager, fun-seeking passengers to the Rolston for Fourth of July celebrations. The couple watched as lines of happy visitors made their way along the narrow roadway. That night, at the end of the celebrations, wagons loaded with baggage, wet towels, and tired children, would catch the homeward bound train.

The dream had become a reality. A tear ran down John Rolston’s cheek as he remembered that dark fateful day nearly three years ago when Portersville was ripped apart by the beast from the gulf. The memory of his roll top desk with plans for the Rolston inside sitting atop a pile of rubble still haunted his dreams. The storm had no name but was etched into the memories of all survivors as deeply as the names on the tombstones of the less fortunate. Time would forevermore be measured as before or after the storm of 1906.

Hand in hand, Cy and Selena Papatonis made their way along the crowded bay front. They smiled, nodded, and greeted visitors on their way to the Rolston Hotel. John waved to the couple as they approached, motioning for them to join them on the porch. By the time Cy and Selena arrived, two glasses of sweet, iced tea garnished with a mint leaf sat sweating on a small table by their chairs.

Did you ever think when you two left Greece that you would give the world three mighty sons, such as Leonidas, Nikos, and Alexi -- each with amazing skills and his own special talents? Rolston asked. Furthermore, that you would build a grand hotel like this one?

Everyone in Portersville, especially our Creek Indian friends, united to build this beautiful hotel, said Cy, taking sip of tea. The physical and spiritual strength of Bear, leader of the tribe, and his strong, wise sons, Osprey and Talon, also helped make all this possible.

As the couples rocked, allowing a warm breeze to ease stress, they listened to sounds of people enjoying themselves, the band playing, and from inside, the strong voice of Big Mama directing her help in the kitchen and dining rooms. Aroma from her food preparations drifted across the yard with a deliciously hypnotic effect of tweaking appetites.

Did Big Mama bring an old wooden box with her from New Orleans? Cy asked. You do remember what happens when she opens that Voodoo box and brings out the magic, don’t you?

I remember those Greek thugs she gave one of her special potions to, John chuckled. They left in a world of pain with no memory of what happened. Left and never came back.

We hated to see her leave after the storm. We now love having our Voodoo Queen back, especially with her magic box and her skills in the kitchen, said Selena.

As if on cue, Big Mama bumped the screen door open with her ample hip and said, How ‘bout I fill up those tea glasses again? Folks having a big old time here at The Rolston.

Did you bring your Voodoo box back to Portersville? Cy asked, holding out his glass. I like knowing it’s around if we need it.

Rest yo’ mind on that worry, said Big Mama, flashing her bright smile. You know that box goes wherever I go.

A ruckus in the kitchen demanded Big Mama’s attention immediately. She placed the tea pitcher on a small table, cinched up her apron, and hurried inside mumbling, Can’t leave some folks alone for a minute. Gotta stay on ‘em all the time. I’ll be glad when Jeanne gets here.

Mr. William Strong opened the screen door and joined the group on the porch. Mr. Strong’s architect firm had designed the Rolston. He had been bustling in and out all day, going over details for last-minute final inspections.

Well, Strong, does our work suit you? John Rolston asked. Is the hotel going to fall down any time soon?

No, John, answered Strong. This building will stand. It’s a great achievement in more ways than one. Everything that’s been done meets the highest standards. Now, enough about building. May I have a glass of that tea?

As these movers and shakers of Portersville sipped their tea, Leonidas Papatonis and his friend William Strong, Jr., known as Bill, strolled up the pathway leading from the pier. The young men, strikingly handsome in their fashionable clothes, were lost in conversation and failed to notice stares from pretty girls who lined the path.

I’m glad our sons became friends, said Mr. Strong. That girl, Charlotte, sure caused a stir between them. I’m glad she’s far away in New York. The two handsome young men bounced up the steps, greeted everyone on the porch, opened the screen door, and headed to the kitchen in search of Alexi.

Chapter 2

Jeanne

Before sunrise on July 4, 1909, The Bay Shore train departed Mobile station pulling only passenger cars filled with excited guests. However, not every person on the train was a guest. Employees vital to the day-to-day operations at the Rolston also traveled aboard the Bay Shore, all looking forward to new opportunities. This day would be special, and everyone working at the Rolston needed to be prepared.

Big Mama gathered her kitchen workers, chefs, and waitresses in the dining room. She tapped the edge of a glass, and the room became quiet. I got somethin’ to tell y’all. Today’s a big day here at our hotel, and Mr. Rolston, he wants everything to go along real good. We gettin’ a new worker, name of Jeanne. A few years back, I came to work at The Portersville Hotel, and she took care of my mother in New Orleans. Mama died a while back, and Jeanne asked if she could work here at the Rolston. I told her sure nuff, Girl! I hope y’all treat her with respect. She’s gonna be the best worker you ever saw … well, besides me that is.

Does she look like you, Big Mama? asked one of the cooks. Nothing meant by it. Just wondering.

Big Mama grinned. Put us side by side and you can’t tell us apart.

Big Mama then grabbed her rolling pin and shook it playfully at the assembly of cooks and kitchen workers. Y’all got to clear on outta here now. This old woman’s got to have a little beauty nap before she gets to cookin’ up a special feast for all y’all. Now shoo! Outta my way!

As soon as the workers were gone, Big Mama signaled with a whistle and Jeanne stepped out of the closet where Big Mama had told her to stay until the coast was clear. Big Mama flopped heavily down into a nearby easy chair. Come here, you pretty thing. I got somethin’ real special for you. She pulled out a large box and handed it to Jeanne. This is for you to wear tonight. I got me one just like it. Portersville ain’t ever seen nothin’ like us two before.

Shushing Jeanne so she could not utter a word of thanks, the old woman rushed Jeanne out the door to her own room. Opening the box and clearing away a mountain of white wrapping tissue, Jeanne stared open mouthed at a gorgeous sparkling red dress. The urge to try it on was irresistible. She lost no time stripping out of her jeans and work shirt and wiggling into the form-fitting red dress that hugged every beautiful curve on her body. Another irresistible urge sent her straight out the door to see what kind of reaction the dress could provoke.

***

Alexi Papatonis, Cy’s youngest son and a chef at the Rolston Hotel dropped a pot on the floor startling everyone in the kitchen. He bent to pick up the pot and bumped his head on the corner of a table causing a plate to topple to the floor and shatter.

Dammit, said Alexi, nursing a lump rising just below his hairline.

Child! What is wrong with you? Big Mama fussed. Thought I taught you better than that.

Just moments before, a vision in sparkling red had drifted by the kitchen door stopping briefly to smile at Alexi. Her red dress fit tightly revealing her shapely body beneath. Within seconds, the beautiful young woman was gone.

Big Mama carefully bent over, picked up the pot, washed it out and handed it back to Alexi. He had not moved from the spot or even rubbed the pronounced bump on his head. As if under a spell, he gazed at the open door where the vision had been.

You gonna stand there holdin’ that pot or put somethin’ in it? Big Mama mumbled. I don’t know what you thinkin’ about. Mighty dangerous cooking over a hot stove or handlin’ sharp objects when your mind is on something else. Give me that pot! I’ll finish makin’ that gumbo. You go take a break. Get your mind right!

Alexi rushed out of the kitchen into the lobby running headlong into his brother Leonidas and his college friend, Bill

Bill laughed and asked, Where you going in such a hurry? The building ain’t on fire that I know of.

Alexi, with a blank look on his face, did not say a word. Looking in every direction, he said, "Did you see a girl wearing a red dress?’

Sure, lots of girls wearing red dresses, white dresses, and blue dresses, said Bill flashing a toothy grin.

Shut up, said Alexi. This is not a joke! Believe me! You woulda noticed this girl.

Brother, said Leonidas. Let’s go up the stairs and look out across the yard. Maybe you’ll spot this girl of yours.

Alexi turned, taking the stairs two at a time.

When Bill and Leonidas caught up with him at the observation deck above the top floor of the Rolston, Alexi was still running around in circles looking in all directions.

Calm down, Little Brother, said Leonidas in a low voice. We’ll help you look.

The sight from atop the Rolston was something to behold. The afternoon sun was setting, casting orange rays across the blue July sky. Carried by a gentle north breeze, music from the bandstand drifted across the bay. The fragrances of pine, cigar smoke, and Creole gumbo filled the air along with a sweet smell of perfume.

While the three young men leaned on the rail of the Widow’s Walk, two girls stepped onto the deck to join them. Leonidas and Bill turned around and came face to face with two of the most beautiful girls they had ever seen. Alexi did not even notice them as he continued his search for the red dress.

The girls smiled and made their way to the rail. Leonidas turned and motioned for the blonde to take the space at the rail next to him. Bill did the same for the other. The girl with Bill had dark hair and big brown eyes. Both had shapely figures and smelled like candy.

Leonidas and Bill had forgotten about Alexi until he screamed, There! There! On the top of the bathhouse on the pier! I see her!

Well, damn, Alexi, said Bill. You better get your butt on out there before you have some sort of breakdown.

The beautiful blonde girl slipped her arm around Leonidas’s waist and pulled him close to her. She blinked her crystal blue eyes and asked, What’s your name?

Leonidas is my name, and this fella is Bill. We attend Spring Hill College in Mobile.

The girls looked at each other, smiled, and said that they were here with their parents and would be staying at the hotel overnight. Their fathers, both state representatives, were traveling with the Governor. The girls attended Livingston Teachers College near Tuscaloosa and were not interested in anything going on at The Rolston. Their attention was focused on the two good-looking fellows by their sides.

How about we go for a boat ride after the sun goes down? said the brunette looking at Bill.

Fine by me, answered Bill. Leonidas there is a boat guy. He’ll be in charge. How about it, Captain? Reckon we can commandeer a rowboat?

Leonidas shrugged and cast a doubtful look at Bill, who nodded and put his hands together in a silent plea. Aargh! said Leonidas. I guess a couple of old pirates can commandeer a rowboat. Meet us at the end of the pier before they shoot the fireworks. We’ll watch the show from out in the bay.

The girls giggled and skipped down the stairs. Bill and Leonidas looked at each other as if questioning what they had just agreed to do.

***

Alexi pushed and shoved his way through the crowd on the pier. He scampered up the steps to the top level. There she was. Without speaking they were drawn to each other. Alexi faced the girl and reached for her hand. She did not resist as her dark eyes peered into his soul. Completely caught up in each other’s eyes, time stopped as Alexi and Jeanne lost contact with the rest of the world.

After a few moments, Fate intervened in the form of Big Mama’s raucous shouting. I need all cookin’ hands on deck right now! Drop whatcha doin’ and come to Big Mama NOW! No lollygaggin’!

Alexi knew better than to linger. He looked helplessly at Jeanne who gave him a gentle push and a smile that let Alexi know that they had unfinished business.

***

Alexi had listened to Big Mama’s instructions as attentively as his whirling love struck mind would allow. After dressing for the Fourth of July party, he bustled around Big Mama arranging Creole dishes and decorating Big Mama’s huge red, white, and blue cakes.

During the afternoon hours after her brief excursion in the red dress, Jeanne had stayed in her room as instructed by Big Mama. She napped and thought of a handsome Greek boy. The trip from New Orleans had taken its toll, but excitement overtook her exhaustion. Dressed in her work clothes, she occasionally sneaked onto the porch and stole a look into the kitchen where Alexi, Big Mama and many others scurried around preparing meals. Her excitement grew each time Alexi walked near the doorway.

Alexi was beautiful. He was tall with muscular arms and shoulders. His shiny black hair bounced with each step as he listened and gave directions with a bright smile. His dark eyes revealed concern for those around him, but at the same time, courage to face adversaries.

Jeanne ached to see him again.

***

Guests and staff alike happily awaited the arrival of Big Mama’s special guest. They stood on the side porch, laughing and anticipating the heavy-set young girl’s arrival. From inside the kitchen a familiar voice commanded, All y’all come on in here.

Big Mama stood in the center of the kitchen dressed in a fine red dress fitted tightly around her ample body. Beside her stood one of the most beautiful creatures in God’s creation, also clad in a red dress. Now, I want you all to just stand there and see if you can tell us apart.

The group burst into laughter. You sho right, Big Mama, yelled one of the cooks. You two look like twins.

This here is Jeanne Lafitte, said Big Mama. She’s like a little sister to me. Come by and tell her who you are.

The revelation of Jeanne’s identity left Alexi stunned. He stepped outside onto the porch and stared into the darkness, listening to the train rumble away in the distance. A great horned owl hooted nearby, stirring the night bugs to song. Far across the pines, a panther cried out.

After the party guests had been introduced to Jeanne, she wandered onto the porch where she had last spotted Alexi. Warm sweet breath blew into his ear making Alexi weak in the knees. This is my party and as the guest of honor, I choose you, Alexi, to be my escort.

Chapter 3

Fireworks

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Excelsior Band switched from jazz to a medley of patriotic marches. Children gathered in front of the bandstand to pick American flags out of a box. Carrying and waving the flags, they marched in a line throughout the crowd gathered on the lawn. The music and lights around the bandstand lured visitors still swimming, boating, or simply relaxing on the pier toward the front yard.

A couple on the top deck remained quiet and still. Holding hands, Jeanne and Alexi sat on a bench overlooking the festivities.

Darkness crept across the bay, and stars filled the sky. The moon was a sliver of bright white light. The couple had slipped away for another few minutes to be alone. They blended into the darkness and sat quietly whispering.

I know all about you and your family, said Jeanne softly. Big Mama shared many stories with me. She loves your family as much as her own. You, however, are her favorite.

I’m her favorite because like her, I like to cook. She does care for my brothers, too. All right! You say you know all about me so it’s only fair that I know a bit about you.

Jeanne turned slightly toward Alexi, her body brushing his shoulder. She peered into his eyes, her single diamond stud earring glinting in the lamplight. I’m the great granddaughter of Jean Lafitte the pirate. My parents died after a terrible storm, and I moved into the shop owned by Big Mama’s mother. She was old and I took care of her and ran the Voodoo shop. When her mother died, Big Mama sold the shop. The new owners changed the shop into a bookstore and began discarding the inventory. I managed to save a few things that I keep locked in a box. Someday I will share with you what’s in that special box.

Beautiful, mysterious and a pirate’s great granddaughter with a boxful of secrets! Jeanne, you’re … you’re a treasure! I’ve found myself a treasure.

***

Two familiar figures walked along the pier toward the boat dock. Leonidas jumped into one of the rowboats followed by Bill, who grabbed his friend so that they stood face to face. Leonidas, my friend, we are nowhere near crazy for meeting those girls. They’re gorgeous. We’re gonna have an adventure tonight. Loosen up, good buddy. What could go wrong? Besides, who’s gonna know?

I would, said Leonidas. I’d know.

Bill saw the sadness in his friend’s eyes. Shaking his head, he muttered, Just get in the boat and drive. All you gotta do. I’ll take care of both girls.

Thanks, Bill. You’re a true friend, Leonidas answered, giving his friend a brief hug. As the girls walked up, Leonidas heard Bill making creative excuses for his lack of interest and for how Bill planned to more than make up for it. The threesome climbed into the boat, immediately uncorking the wine and filling their glasses.

Leonidas untied the boat and placed the oars into the locks. With a single pull on the oars, the boat lurched away from the pier and into the darkness, trailing a green phosphorescence.

***

Well, well, said Jeanne, watching Leonidas, Bill, and the girls pull away from the dock. Looks like there may be a different kind of fireworks tonight.

Doesn’t look like Leonidas will be a part of those fireworks, said Alexi. He’s too in love with a girl named Charlotte who’s going to school in New York.

Alexi, I hate to say this, but sometimes the distance may be just too far. When was the last time your brother saw Charlotte?

I don’t know for sure, but I think a few months ago.

That’s a long time. Don’t you think?

Yes, but surely they write to each other or speak on the telephone.

Are you sure? asked Jeanne. What has Leonidas been doing over the past year?

After the storm, we all worked cleaning up and rebuilding. Then, we began building the Rolston Hotel. My father oversaw the construction. We worked every day from daylight until dark on the hotel, lodge, and pier. Leonidas rode the train to Mobile two times a week to attend classes at Spring Hill College and learn the cotton brokerage business from Mr. Rolston. Before we knew it, two years had gone by. I guess you’re right. I really don’t know anything about Charlotte and Leonidas.

Let’s go back and join the party, said Jeanne. I also need to check on Big Mama and make sure she has everything she needs to move into the lodge in the back.

You and Big Mama are staying in the lodge? Alexi asked.

Yes. John Rolston offered us a place to stay while we work in the kitchen with you.

A big smile covered Alexi’s face as he said, Well, how lucky can one guy be?

***

The two girls had been drinking and were a bit tipsy. Bill held the dark-haired girl tightly to keep her from standing up in the boat. The blonde staggered by Leonidas and sat down hard on the stern seat.

Let’s take these ladies back to the pier, said Leonidas. They really shouldn’t be in a boat.

Bill popped the cork on another bottle of wine, took a sip, passed to the girls, and said, Not yet. This is getting interesting.

***

A lantern glowed aboard the schooner anchored a short distance away. Unfamiliar voices, laughing, and the clinking of glasses carried across the still surface of the bay. Captain Graham was entertaining a boat load of passengers aboard the Queen.

A booming voice from the schooner said, Who goes there in the dark?

Leonidas, Captain, shouted Leonidas. We’re just going for a little boat ride.

Bill yelled, And maybe a swim.

Watch out for sharks! Captain Graham yelled.

Sharks? The blonde asked. Sharks out here -- in this water?

Naw, there ain’t any sharks out here, said Bill, feeling the effects of the wine. We can swim here if we want.

Will you save us? The brunette asked, looking over and winking at the blonde. Is the water over our heads?

Sure, I’ll save you both, said Bill, taking off his shirt. Let me help you with that dress.

The brunette stood up, raised her arms, and Bill lifted the dress over her head. She was not wearing anything under the dress. Rather than stand there naked while Bill gawked, she jumped into the warm water. Bill snatched off his clothes and dove clumsily into the bay after her.

Well, what about you, Big Boy? The blonde asked softly, holding out her arms toward Leonidas. Wanna go swimming with me?

From the pier, a skyrocket exploded high above the bay. The band played louder, and the people sang along. A memory of similar fireworks years ago flooded Leonidas’s mind. A vision of Charlotte Devane standing on the balcony of the Portersville Hotel overcame any urge he might have had to go swimming.

***

The explosion of fireworks resonated through the water stimulating the senses of a big Tiger Shark. The monster turned toward the Rolston.

Sorry, I’m not much of a swimmer, said Leonidas. He kept recalling the strange seriousness in Captain’s remark. I’m afraid of sharks too.

Oh, come on, whined the blonde. I want to swim too.

Go ahead, responded Leonidas. Take off your clothes and jump in. Sharks around here like to feed at night.

The blonde shed her dress, jumped into the water, and swam toward Bill and her friend.

Alone in the skiff, Leonidas watched a smoldering rocket fall into the water. Darkness shrouded the bay. A trail of phosphorescent green approached the skiff.

Get out of the water now! Leonidas screamed.

Within seconds the green trail circled the skiff. A huge fin sliced the water between the swimmers and the boat.

Both girls and Bill scrambled back into the boat and pulled on their clothes, all the while whining about Leonidas spoiling their fun. On the ride back, Bill and the girls all threw up and for the rest of the trip, fought to keep their eyes open.

Before dozing off, the blonde girl whispered, I saw something in the water. Was it a shark?

Yes, replied Leonidas as Bill slept. That was a Tiger Shark, and he was looking for a meal. Y’all were lucky. Real lucky.

Leonidas rowed the skiff back toward the end of the Rolston Pier as the fireworks ended.

***

Leonidas secured the skiff, used a bucket to wash the vomit off the deck, and walked slowly toward the Rolston Hotel. The Bay Shore rumbled by in the distance on its third run of the day. Soon it would return and make its stop at the station behind The Rolston.

Bill, after watching bleary eyed as the girls headed to the hotel, lay on the grass at the edge of the walkway. Leonidas pushed him gently with his foot and asked if he wanted to come stay with his family for the night. Bill waved him away. Exhausted, Leonidas began walking up the beach road toward the cabin in the pines.

Voices from the hotel and lights in the kitchen reminded him of Big Mama’s party to introduce her special guest.

Four familiar images appeared from the darkness. The two couples walked side by side holding hands. Cy, Selena, Nikos, and Andromeda smiled as they recognized Leonidas.

Hi, Son, said Cy. Aren’t you going to Big Mama’s party. She’s expecting you.

I don’t think so, said Leonidas. I’m tired and really do not feel like being around people.

Hey! said Nikos, dropping Andromeda’s hand to clap Leonidas’s back. Come on, Brother. We’re not people. We’re family!

You know what I mean. I can’t stop thinking about Charlotte and how I miss her.

Nikos placed a sturdy arm across Leonidas’s shoulders and the other around Andromeda. Come on, Brother. We’re family. Let’s go to the party.

Cy and Selena draped their arms around their sons and Andromeda and gave a big squeeze. That’s right, Son, said Cy. We are family, even though you do smell like vomit!

Okay, I’ll take a shower!

***

Amid all the goings on at Big Mama’s party, Leonidas slipped into the lobby, picked up the phone, and dialed the women’s dormitory at Columbia College.

A familiar voice at the switchboard said, Women’s dorm. How may I help you?

Hello. This is Leonidas Papatonis from Portersville. I need to speak with Charlotte Devane.

Hi, Leonidas. Charlotte and Vivian signed out around noon for a day trip. They have not returned. As a matter of fact, we are a bit worried.

Please give her a message from me when she returns.

Sure. What is the message?

Since the Fourth of July is like an anniversary for us, I really wanted to hear your voice. Also, I’m looking forward to receiving my next letter and breathing in your special fragrance. I love you. Leonidas.

Oh, my god, said the girl’s voice between heavy breaths, I wish I could get a message like that. I’ll be sure that she receives the message as soon as she gets back into the dormitory. Good night.

Leonidas replied, Thank you and good night.

Chapter 4

Omen

Captain Graham carefully stowed away sails, rope, and other loose items after cleaning up trash from the fireworks party aboard the Queen. He did not particularly enjoy having groups aboard, but the pay was good.

He watched Leonidas splash water into the skiff, bail it out, and pull himself onto the pier before disappearing into the darkness. The Queen shifted on her anchor line. The Captain breathed deeply, catching scents from a fresh north offshore breeze laced with pine, food, and a trace of coal smoke from the Bay Shore engine. His small skiff bumped the port side of the Queen indicating some sort of disturbance on the calm surface of the bay. A splash caused the hair to stand up on his neck.

Probably a school of mullet, whispered Captain. Of course, it could be something else.

Before stepping down into his skiff, he squinted his eyes trying to spot a telltale greenish phosphorescence or heaven forbid, a fin. He picked up the oars and secured them into the locks. The skiff rocked again.

My imagination, said Captain aloud. Shark’s gone by now. Ain’t nothing to eat except a tough old sailor anyhow.

With each pull of his oars, Captain watched the Queen fade slowly into the darkness. Another splash nearby caused Captain to dig the oars deeper. After ramming the pier, he quickly tied the anchor line and pulled himself up the swim ladder careful not to touch the water. The water churned as a fin sliced the surface followed by a green trail. Within seconds, the stillness returned.

A mullet broke the surface of the bay. Did I see something? Captain whispered to himself. Are my eyes playing tricks?

***

Big Mama’s party was in full swing. Captain Graham welcomed the chatter of voices and laughter, his heart pounding from the scary encounter, whether real or not. Fear has a way of playing tricks, mumbled Captain. Ain’t nothing out there except a school of mullet.

Standing outside the lamplight, Captain leaned against a tree and lit a cigar. In the dark and total silence, a hand touched him on the back as he puffed out the fire from a match. Damn it! Captain said, dropping the match. You gotta stop sneaking up on people, Bear.

Flanked by his sons Osprey and Talon, a huge Creek Indian stood only a foot away. A twig snapped and Marie, Osprey’s wife, appeared holding her younger son Kit. Cub, her six-year-old son, trailed behind. We came to see the new visitor, said Marie. Big Mama has not told us anything about her other than she’s a good worker and looks a lot like her.

An airy explosion followed by a strong odor emanated from the chubby baby boy.

Boy eat beans today, said Bear. The baby graced the crowd with a proud grin.

When the hilarity inspired by Kit’s impromptu performance settled, the group followed Big Mama into the kitchen. Jeanne walked into the room from the lobby and stood by Big Mama smiling.

The group applauded the two women standing side by side wearing identical dresses and soon broke into laughter.

That girl not look like Big Mama, growled Bear. She is pretty and slim. Big Mama, not so much. I do not understand.

Captain smiled, exhaled a plume of cigar smoke, and said, Humor, big guy. It’s called humor. You ain’t had any since I knew you.

Both powerful Creek sons grabbed their father around his monstrous shoulders, hugged him tightly, and said, No, Pop has never had much of a sense of humor. We learned as young braves not to play jokes on Bear.

The giant horned owl lit overhead, turned its head toward Bear, and made a series of strange sounds.

Great Owl, seer of my people, say trouble coming, said Bear.

Chapter 5

Time to Sleep and Dream

At ten o-clock, the Excelsior Band played its last patriotic medley. Exhausted visitors had packed up their belongings, gathered their children, and were waiting to board the train to go home. A deep vibration through the still night air signaled the approach of the Bay Shore inbound on the next run of the night. Hotel wagons loaded with picnic baskets, bags of wet bathing suits, and sleeping children slowly rolled through the darkness toward the whistle stop passing under the outstretched limb of a massive live oak. Porters loaded the baggage and signaled the engineer to move ahead. Once the passenger cars aligned themselves with the loading platform, a group of passengers waiting in the dark eagerly filled them.

Unable to make it to the loading platform in time, some guests waited patiently for the train to return from the turn-around a few miles away. After loading the remaining exhausted passengers, the engineer blasted the whistle, shot steam into the woods, and released the brakes. The Bay Shore disappeared into the darkness leaving a trail of smoke.

While the Bay Shore Train made its way toward Mobile, many of the guests with room reservations continued to celebrate at the Rolston. Politicians sat on the long porches smoking fat cigars and sipping brandy while currying favor with their constituents. Many others walked along the shore of