Ch. 50 A new chapter
The next morning, Kate had prepared breakfast and they were waiting for their guests.
"Good morning !", said Nikki's clear voice.
"Aha! Did you sleep well?", Dylan asked.
Pete scratched his head, "Under the circumstances, short but good. Was it late yesterday or should I say early?"
"Bacon and eggs!", Kate announced placing the frying pan on the table.
"Wow! I don't want to buy a bigger uniform size you know", Nikki replied looking longingly at the tasty bacon.
Kate filled the plates and also sat down, "Enjoy it and what are your plans today?", she said.
Nikki and Pete looked at each other, "First the uniform shop and then uh... looking for an apartment", he said.
"Well, then I think I have something for you? Interested?", Kate answered.
"Yeah, why not", Nikki replied.
"Good, so I suggest we go look at it after breakfast and afterwards, you still can see the shop", Kate said.
About two hours later they were standing in the spacious entrance hall of the building and Kate opened the front door.
"Kate, are you sure we have the same idea of what an apartment is?", Pete asked unsure.
She nodded, "Absolutely. Wait and see", she said pushing the lift call button.
Nikki and Pete exchanged a glance.
On the top floor they went out and Kate opened the front door of the apartment. She entered and waited until the others were also inside to close the door. "It's the entrance hall with a guest toilet and a cloakroom.
"And now this is the main part!", she announced, opening the door to the largest room which included the living room, the dining room and the open kitchen. A wall of large windows overlooked the terrace from which one had a splendid view of the great bay of Melbourne.
"Oh my gosh! This is amazing!", Nikki exclaimed, looking at the landscape with wide eyes. Then the looks of Nikki and Pete lingered on the nice furniture and they looked at Kate and Dylan.
"Here's the open kitchen", Kate continued and padded further.
She opened the other doors in the entrance hall, "These are two bedrooms and this is the third one, a smaller one".
After going around, they stood again in the living room. "What do you think?", Kate asked.
"Kate, it's beautiful, but it must cost a fortune and we're not so much... You know. Something cheaper would already be fair enough for us", she said ill-at-ease.
"But you like it?", Kate asked.
"Yes, of course. It's amazing, but we can guess what the rent will be", Nikki said.
"It was my father's and now it's mine. You're the best hirer to whom I picture I can rent it", Kate answered sadly.
Nikki shook her head, "But Kate, this is fabulous, why don't you move in here?"
"Nik, I love our old cottage with the garden, especially the garden. Flowers and plants inspire me. It's so different from the sea that I feel attracted to them. Moreover a child needs a garden to play. So, be happy here! And concerning the rent, don't worry about it. I'm asking for rent for an average apartment", she said.
Pete frowned, "But Kate, it's probably too little".
"Absolutely, but as I said before. I can't be part of this apartment and I'm happy to be able to rent it to you. Do we have a deal?", she said.
Nikki and Pete looked at each other, "For me it's okay baby".
Nikki looked at Kate and Dylan and nodded, "Yes, absolutely! I think it's the best deal of our lives".
Kate smiled broadly, "Perfect! Then we'll have just a formality, the contract, you see. Tonight we'll finalize it. And concerning the furniture, you're not obliged to keep them. Put your own stuff in it."
The couple looked again at each other, "Uhm, the furniture we have is not from this quality. We like our own bed, but for the rest, we'll discuss it, what do you think?"
"It's a good idea. It's all overwhelming for the moment", Peter replied.
"Nice! We'll drop you off at the Navy store for uniforms and we'll see you later. Oh, by the way, the day after tomorrow we are organising a reception for New Year's and I need a new dress. Do you like shopping?", Kate asked.
Nikki smiled radiantly, "Shopping? Of course! For such an event I also need something"
Two days later, in fact the day before the reception, Kate entered home. She slammed the door pushing it with her backside, "I'm home!", she yelled.
"No need to yell that. The sound of the door speaks volumes!", Dylan replied.
"My hands are full", she answered when entering the living room.
"Hey? Did you get your hair done?", he said.
"Yes, indeed. I went to the hairdresser. I wanted to do something for that stupid dent", she said, putting her bags on the table. "What do you think of it?", she asked.
Her hair waved now to the right and masked her temple.
He nodded, "Nice, stylish. Something to remember".
Kate smiled radiantly, "I'm glad you like it. And I bought a dress and shoes for tomorrow", she said when unwrapping her purchases.
Before he could say something she raised her hand," Wait! I'll put it on and then you can give your opinion".
He raised his large hands to say "What can I say".
A minute later she came back on her new black lacquered high-heeled pumps and took a full ride on herself. "Here I am!"
She appeared in an azure blue sleeveless dress with a slight neckline in front and with a low back.
He hissed, "Wow sexy!"
"Uh-hu. I want to make a good impression on my first speech", she said.
The next day Robert drove to Rebecca's flat, parked the car and padded somewhat nervous to the door. He rang the bell and took a deep breath.
It's weird. It's the first time I'm going to pick up a girl for an evening! I...
His thoughts didn't go further because he heard her voice, "Hello?"
"Ah...uh.. it's me... RO...are you...", he stammered but was interrupted by her.
"Go up! I open the door"
The door buzzed and he pushed it open.
Becca? Why can't you come down at once? It would be easier.
He didn't have time to consider the issue because the lift had already stopped on the second floor. The door was ajar and he pushed it open.
"Hi?", he said unsure.
"I'm here! In the bathroom", she yelled back.
He closed the door and looked around.
Hmm, nice. White walls, cream club chairs with light wood. It's quite different from my variety. Typically women's interior decoration...
"Hi Rob", he heard behind him and he turned around. He stared at her wide-eyed.
"Wow! I...I've never seen you like this before. You're gorgeous!", he said baffled.
Rebecca wore a deep red cocktail dress with an ample neckline and high-heeled lacquered pumps.
"There is a first time for everything, huh?", she replied wryly with a big smile. Next they kissed.
"Thank you for loving it", she said.
"With pleasure Becca", he answered.
"But why so early? Doesn't officially start in an hour?", he asked looking at his watch.
"Kate has asked me to take care for the organisation of the catering. I want to be there to see if everything runs smoothly, otherwise Kate will kill me", she said as she rubbed a dust particle from the collar of his jacket.
"I see".
"Oh Rob, may I ask you something?", she asked.
"Tell me"
"Could you control your drinking?"
"Becca, I barely drink".
"I know Rob, but when you're with the mates at such an event, you want to keep up with them and you can't stand alcohol. We're a couple and it would be really embarrassing for us if you got drunk", she said with her sad expression.
He kissed her, "Don't worry Becca. I'll watch out".
"Thank you and let's go now. I don't want to come after those geezers of the catering", she said, grabbing her purse.
"Oh, by the way, do you like croissants?", she asked.
"Yes why?"
"Oh you silly. Because it's for breakfast tomorrow morning, yes?", she said with a bone melting smile.
"Ah? Nice. What time should I be here?", he asked.
"Oh Rob! Sometimes you can be very daft! You stay here tonight, of course!"
The reception was a success. Almost all the employees attended, as well as a large number from agencies. Kate also noticed that their Public Relations Manager had also invited journalists. Shaking hands and saying hello to lots of people she barely saw, she made her a way to her husband who was chatting with Pete and Harpie. She patted his arm. "Darling, can you go after Chris for me? I want to tell you both something".
"Hmm? Ok. Sorry guys. The CEO spoke", he said with a grin to Pete and Harpie which earned him a poke from Kate.
A minute later, he was back with Chris.
"Thanks for coming", she said, motioning the terrace with her head.
They went out and she looked at them both.
"Guys, I want that you know this before the others. I'm going to take over from my father as CEO of the company, but it's something you already knew. Nikki is going to be the temporary captain of MV Katherine", Kate said.
Chris frowned, "Temporary?"
"Yes, because we're going to take a second ship in the running. That one will be Nikki's ship, with Pete as bosun. And you, Dylan, you're going to be the captain of MV Katherine. Chris, Nikki needs a good first officer and it will be you. Moreover, Chris, follow the commander's training because you'll need it as first officer and... I foresee that Nikki will also be pregnant and that we'll need you as acting captain until her return", she told them.
"Pfew, it's quite a story!", Chris replied scratching his head.
"Do you like the idea, or...?", Kate asked concerned.
"Yes, yes, sure! It's just quite surprising. Me as first officer and maybe acting captain! I could never have dreamt of that", Chris answered baffled.
She put her hand on his arm, "Chris, I do believe you! I never had the idea of becoming the CEO of a shipping company with two ships".
Then she patted Dylan on the chest, "It also means that you've to get your captain's degree buddy!"
"I suppose so", he replied with a grin.
"Oh, by the way, have you ever seen Becca?", Kate asked frowning.
""Yes, I saw her. She looks stunning, but I'm afraid that she doesn't get a lot of compliments because she's chasing the catering people", Chris replied with a grin.
"Oh, I see. Okay. Come! It's time for the speech", Kate said motioning the door with her head.
Once inside she walked to the microphone. Dylan went to stand next to her as director. She waved her hand to the DJ who stopped the music and everyone looked up.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for coming to our New Years reception. For those of you who don't know me yet, I'm Kate McGregor and I succeed my father, Arthur McGregor, as CEO of the company. First of all, I want to thank you for all the efforts made with my father to make this company great! We started from scratch with one vessel and with a few containers and now we ports of call all over the country and we also have a large network of agencies. Moreover we carry passengers and we have a port of call in Auckland in New Zealand. We've earned a solid reputation with salvage of HMAS Sydney which lost her rudder and propellers by hitting a wreck. For this last action, I would like to thank the crew of our ship, MV Katherine.
You are probably wondering what will happen now that Arthur passed away? Well, we are going to carry out big projects. We are putting a second ship into service under the command of Captain Nikki Caetano! This ship will serve long distant ports and MV Katherine will be used as feedering vessel and for the short sea routes. Regarding timing, the new ship will make her first voyage at the end of the month.
So, that's the plan. A difficult task is behind us, the startup, but a major one awaits us in part to maintain our position on the market and we must strengthen it. And I think we can manage it together, as a team! Let's do it! , said Kate, smiling at the people who applauded the announcement.
"Thank you! If you have any questions, I'm here. And now, enjoy the party!", she said to end her speech.
The Monday after the reception, Kate entered the office her heels clacking on the stone floor, nodding to everyone who greeted her. In front of the CEO's door, she paused looking at the nameplate : 'CEO. Mrs '.
It goes so fast! Last week, it was still A. McGregor. That's life, I guess...
She entered and gently closed the door behind her.
She looked around, the large wooden desk, a huge map of Australia and New Zealand, a bookcase, two club chairs, a side table and seemingly a liquor cabinet. She smile at the latter.
This is one of the images I'll always remember. Dad with a glass of single malt whisky in his hand. For sure, I'll find the same brands he used to drink in England.
She put her handbag on the desk and took off the jacket of her cream coloured suit.
Pfft, I didn't realise it was going to be so hot! Nobody will kill me if I don't wear it!
She hung the jacket on a hanger and padded to the large window from where she had a view on the Yarra River and Federation Square in the distance. Further on, she could see the harbour and the bay of Melbourne.
Jeez! He knew how to choose!
Kate returned to the desk and pulled the luxurious leather chair back to sit.
Dad, where did you got all that money to invest in such expensive equipment? You must have had more than I imagined.
She leaned against the chair.
I can hardly believe it. Starting from scratch and become a company owner. This is called the second chance!
Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door.
"Come in!", she replied and saw a man of about thirty five years old enter.
"Good morning ma'am. I'm Darren and I was your father's assistant and if you agree, I'll also be yours", he said.
"Hi Darren, take a seat and for the smooth running, drop the ma'am and call me Kate. I've heard it enough while I was in the Navy", she said.
"Okay,...Kate", he replied, smiling widely.
She frowned, "I think I know you, but not from the reception. From somewhere else", she said.
He nodded, "I know you ma'am, uh, Kate. I was a petty officer at Navcom in Cairns. I often saw you there with Commander Flynn", he answered.
Kate nodded, "Yeah, it must have been there, but I can't remember clearly.
"Never mind, is there anything I can put on your agenda?", he asked.
"Yes, indeed, I want a face-to-face interview with each department manager. I want to know how my business works. Oh… and a Nespresso machine, because I don't see one here ", Kate replied.
"Okay Kate, I'll take care of it. Your father drank tea, you see", he replied with a radiant smile.
She smiled sadly, "Yeah, I know".
Sydney, the same Monday
Mike was sitting at the table and was leafing through the newspaper while Maxine was busy in the kitchen. "I put your jacket on the club chair. Your fourth band is on it, you know. And did you check if you have your four bands shoulder boards on your shirt? A captain with commander shoulder boards looks ridiculous", she said out of the kitchen.
"Yes I did", he replied.
"I told you. The crash of the HMAS Sydney has been more then beneficial to you than you thought", she said.
"Yeah, I didn't expected that", he replied and leafed through further.
All of a sudden he frowned and started reading the article.
He had seen Kate's photo and the title : 'McGregor Shipping Lines puts a second ship into service'.
Kate. If I'm honest, you were absolutely right. I didn't paid you enough attention at the time. I was too obsessed with my own job, forgetting what we were both building and creating. I deserved what you did with the press when we came back with my frigate in tow.
He continued to read the article.
Well, you've finally made it. CEO of a shipping company with two ships. You always wanted to be the Chief of the Navy. You're the chief of a mini navy now...
"What are you reading?", Maxine asked.
"Uh?"
"What are you reading?", she asked again.
"Well, this is an article about Kate. My former executive officer, you know...", he started.
"Of course I know that woman!", Maxine replied irritated.
"She became the CEO of a shipping company with two ships. She succeeds her father...", he told but she interrupted him.
"You see? I always knew it. She's merciless! Darling be happy to be away from that woman. She would have used you to move up the career ladder and then she would have let you down like an old sock", Maxine said fiercely entering the living room.
Mike looked at her and nodded, "Yeah indeed. It would have happened".
No, that woman is a real workaholic with the heart in the right place and I was an asshole. I ruined everything. The only thing I can do now is to do my best to keep this woman who loves me. Kate was an amazing woman, but to be honest, our characters didn't match. Sooner or later it would have stopped. Max was the first and only, but my overwhelming urge for adventures was too great and I forgot her. Then she got married. We met again during a training and we were too disappointed about what happened. So we decided, after drinking too much wine, to spend one last night together. How could I have known that it was at that time that we were going to conceived Ryan! Anyhow, now I've found my first love and I've learned my lessons.
He stood up and walked to the kitchen. He put his hands on Maxine's waist and kissed her on the neck, "I love you", he simply said.
A heat wave passed through Maxine's body. She turned around, hugged him and kissed him passionately.
"I love you too", she said blinking to hold back tears of happiness.
"And now, breakfast is ready!", she said with a bone melting smile.
To be continued