Chapter 128
In the months leading up to July, Salem and Lilly wound up continuing to see a lot of each other. Despite Salem promising she didn't have to, she sent Salem another box of brownies, but this time she insisted on delivering it to Salem personally in the hopes that he wouldn't have to share them this time. Sadly, it was a fruitless effort, but he did at least get to eat 3 before the others found out and demanded their share. Their 'agreement' for lack of a better word remained outlined. Neither of them wanted anything out of each other accept a good time and pleasant conversation, but Salem would be lying if he said he didn't start to like Lilly a hell of a lot. Under the guise that there would be numerous people there, Lilly had another gathering at her parents' house for a pool party inviting the same people as before as well as a few others. Her parents weren't out of town, but they were at least detained elsewhere.
"Thank God there's no alligator in the pool this time," Aaron teased when everyone was outside ready to enjoy the pool.
"Did you really wrestle that gator out of Lilly's pool single handedly?" one of Lilly's friends asked Salem.
"Just me and an obliging garden hose," Salem answered. But he was more concerned with something he'd overheard one of Lilly's friends, Devin was his name, say to her in a whisper.
"Lilly, should you really be letting that Dauer guy here? What happens if your dad catches him here?"
"He's not a negro, Devin," Lilly said.
"Negro, Indian, same fucking thing," Devin whispered to her. "Look, Lilly, he's a nice guy; I'll admit it but do you realize what your dad will do if he finds this guy at his house? He'll throw a fit! And there's only so much I can do to defuse him."
"Well, worst case scenario, all you need to do is defuse him enough so I can make sure Salem leaves," Lilly said. "In the meantime, Salem and I are very good friends and I won't see him out in the cold because daddy's being a monster."
"Good friends indeed," Devin muttered somewhat to himself but enough that Lilly would hear him.
"Devin, please, we've been over this," Lilly said.
"Yeah, I know we have," Devin answered in frustration and then sighed heavily. There was a brief silence between them before he said, "I'll do what I can, Lilly."
"I appreciate it, Devin. Really I do," Lilly answered.
Delvin seemed to Salem like he wanted to say more but he dropped the conversation and went right to the pool. Ever since overhearing that conversation, Salem felt unsettled in Lilly's house. Her father and mother did return at some point, but luckily they never seemed to notice Salem's presence. Once he knew the man was back, he made a point to ensure it stayed that way but he couldn't shake what he'd overheard. A few days later, Lilly called and asked Salem if he'd like to go to the beach with her Saturday afternoon. Though hesitantly, he agreed to and they met at the beach near The Seagull's Nest.
"Lilly," Salem said once they were walking along the beach while they carried a cooler of food, an umbrella and a blanket between the two of them.
"Yes, Salem?"
"What's the score with your dad?" Salem asked bluntly and Lilly appeared stunned.
"I beg pardon?" Lilly asked.
"Look, Lilly, I like you. You're a really nice girl and I've had a lot of fun with you, but I overheard you and Devin talking about how I shouldn't be in the house, your dad throwing a fit; that sort of thing. I can stay away from your house no problem, but we can't act like there isn't a risk your dad might find out we're spending time together and I need to know what I'm up against if we're going to continue what we've got going." Lilly looked really uncomfortable and a touch saddened and it made Salem sigh. "Never mind. Forget I brought it up. I didn't mean to upset you."
"My daddy used to belong to the Ku Klux Klan," Lilly blurted out and Salem stopped in his tracks.
"Excuse me?" Salem asked.
"He isn't a member anymore," Lilly was quick to say in her father's defense. "When we lived in Georgia, he was affiliated with the Klan, but my mom didn't approve of the people he'd surrounded himself with. I don't know if their membership with the Klan had anything to do with it or if she just really did not like them at all, but daddy cut his ties with them when we moved to Florida but he did so on….I suppose positive terms. He still donates to them when he can and his sentiments never really changed." Lilly was quiet a moment before she continued. "I don't know if mother's sentiments are terribly different either if I'm honest."
"While I'm appreciative for it, why don't you hold the same beliefs?" Salem asked. Lilly looked up at him a moment and then looked at her hands.
"I was very good friends with a boy, Isaiah was his name, when I was a little girl. He was a very nice boy and his mother was the nicest woman I've ever known. She was widowed. Her husband had fought and died in the war. I'd caught Isaiah leaning against a tree one day in '44 crying because they'd gotten news his daddy was killed. I felt so awful for his loss that I sat next to him for hours trying to make him feel better. I even walked him home and his mother was so grateful to me that she let me stay for dinner. I got in so much trouble for being late coming home, but I'd told my parents that I was helping a boy that had just lost his father. I hadn't mentioned he was black. It didn't even occur to me to bring it up, honestly. Mom and daddy told me what I'd done was very kind and they were proud of me.
"I spent so much time with Isaiah playing and getting to know him and his mother. Then one day daddy told me I wasn't allowed to play with Isaiah anymore. I suppose he found out Isaiah was a negro and he told me that I shouldn't be playing with a child like that. At first I did as daddy said and Isaiah and I stopped playing together, but I would still see him from time to time when I was walking to school and I missed playing with him. One day I saw Isaiah playing with a new toy he'd gotten for his birthday and he asked if I would play with him. It was after school, so I thought nothing of it. Then a group of older boys from my school caught us playing and they started harassing Isaiah. They even beat him up and they didn't stop until I screamed at them and started crying. I felt so horrible and it was worse when daddy found out." Lilly rubbed her eye. "A few days later, I went to their house to apologize, but they weren't there. I found a note that had been from Isaiah's mom. It had been addressed to me. It thanked me for standing up for her son and prayed that, where they were running to, there were more people like me."
"Did they make it where they were going?" Salem asked.
"I don't know," Lilly admitted. "I wish I did. I'd tried telling daddy what happened right after hoping he might be able to do something, but he wouldn't. He just said 'serves the nigger right'."
"Harsh words," Salem said. "And unfounded."
"I never could forgive him for that," Lilly said and rubbed her eye again. "When he broke his membership with the Klan I thought it was because he'd had a change of heart, but it was not the case. He'd found a better job here in Florida and needed to uproot us and mother didn't like the men he associated with and said she didn't want him running with such a crowd anymore and daddy complied."
"So really, you're seeing me to get back at your father?" Salem asked, slightly offended and irritated with the prospect.
"If I'm honest, there may be a small part of me that feels that way," Lilly said, "but it has more to do with the fact that I really do just like you. You're a man just like anyone else and while some might think what we have as immoral, I appreciate that you had the strength of character to be upfront with me and treat me with enough respect not to lie to me and pretend we had more of a relationship than what we have."
"I appreciate you not taking offense to my honesty," Salem said. "I guess you understand that I'm not too keen on making an appearance at your house anymore under the circumstances."
"I understand," Lilly said but she looked as though the news upset her a little.
"Hey, don't let it bother you. We can still see each other. There just won't be any more pool parties for me."
"I'm sorry," Lilly said with an apologetic smile.
"So…I hope you don't mind me asking but is there anything between you and Devin?"
"It's alright," Lilly reassured. "Daddy really likes Devin and we dated briefly when we were in high school but I just wasn't…'in love' with him if that makes sense. I love him but I'm not 'in love' with him. His feeling for me are deeper than mine are for him but he's been sweet and understanding about my feelings. I think daddy's hoping one day I'll 'come to my senses' and marry Devin, but he's not pursuing me that way. He can never help to remind me that he still loves me, but he's been very mature about the situation."
"I can tell," Salem said. "He's not…you know…part of the Klan or anything is he?"
"No," Lilly said. "He's a good man. He's not perfect and he certainly has his biases, but he knows better. His great grandma was black too."
"Wait what? Really?"
"Really," Lilly nodded. "His great grandmother was fair skinned compared to most and she took advantage of her features and fled to Florida so she could pass for white and married a white man."
"Did her husband know?"
"I don't think so but Devin's father knows and he told Devin. It's a closely guarded family secret that I really shouldn't know about but Devin confided as much in me."
"And yet he's good friends with your father," Salem said.
"I know it must not seem like it, but daddy can be a very kind man for his own. He's a good husband to my mother and a good father to me but he was raised a certain way and raised to believe a certain way. That's no excuse I know, but I know the man my father can be. I might not be able to forgive his behavior but he's still my father. I still love him."
"I think I know what you mean," Salem said and held Lilly's hand to her surprise. "Thank you for telling me. I know I brought this up out of nowhere and it's really not my business but-"
"No, no, it is your business given the situation," Lilly defended. "I'm relieved you're being so understanding."
"Hey, it's not your fault," Salem smiled and Lilly smiled back at him. "Can I admit something to you?"
"Of course," Lilly said.
"In a different life, I might have fallen madly in love with you," Salem said.
Lilly giggled, "And why can't you be madly in love with me now?"
"Let's just say that I've seen the purest love I could possible enjoy and I'm dead set on that being the love I have for the rest of my life," Salem said. "My uncles have that kind of love, my mom found that kind of love, both my grandparents, my brother; it's love at first sight basically."
"Is that why you joined the Navy?" Lilly teased. "You're hoping to find the love of your life in far-away lands like your brother and uncles did?"
"It's not the whole reason, but there's a small part of me that hopes I'll have my own whirlwind romance," Salem said. "In the meantime, you're too good for me but I appreciate your affections Miss Tanner."
"I'm happy to offer them, Officer," Lilly smiled and blushed a little as they continued down the beach together.
As Salem said they should, he never returned to Lilly's house ever again. Instead, they met around town here and there whether it was a large social group or so they were alone and could be intimate and their relationship was very comfortable. Then it was finally the day for his latest tattoo appointment. He'd notified Officer Lake of the appointment and was even allowed off duty early assuming he got all his work done. He'd never worked so fast in his life. When he arrived at the shop, Andy already had his station set up and smiled at Salem.
"You're gonna love her, Salem," Andy said as soon as Salem came in. "I don't mind telling you I'm pretty God damn proud of my dark haired Betty Crocker."
"Well, don't leave me in suspense. Show me!" Salem smiled as he approached and Andy presented the imagine in full color to him. He had good reason to be proud.
She was extremely unique: tan skin, raven hair that Andy had drawn to be up in a very messy bun right atop her head and loose strands of hair framing the woman's delicate, beautiful face. Her lips were full, her tongue out licking at some chocolate batter dripping from a black whisk and her breasts were in full view. She wore an apron, but the apron was bunched up between her breasts so they were visible in their full, perhaps overly perfect glory. The apron was yellow with pink flowers and she held the bowl of batter right at her midriff so nothing was covered. She was sitting on her knees facing forward and the apron covered her most intimate, feminine part of her body which was also clearly of exaggerated perfection. What caught Salem's attention, however, were her eyes. They were blue. Not just any blue. It was teal: a color he associated immediately with the water. Her hands were so perfect Salem wondered if Andy had taken a picture of a woman and was trying to claim he'd drawn it. On her left ring finger was the implication of an anchor for a ring with long, graceful nails.
"Holy shit," Salem said.
"I thought you'd like her," Andy chuckled.
"She's too good for my skin," Salem answered with a smile and handed the picture back. "I can't wait to have her."
"I've got everything ready, so let's get the stencil on and we'll get started."
Removing his shirt, Salem kept his arm up so Andy could get the stencil transferred to the skin of his left ribcage and it was the perfect size, her knees reaching his hipbone and the top of her bun hitting midway where his chest was. Once the stencil was on and Salem got himself comfortable on the reclined seat and Andy went right to work. Salem knew it would need to be two appointments and he begged, after Andy had started, that they be able to finish his tattoo the following day. Even though it was Sunday, Andy agreed he'd do it but only because he loved the tattoo he'd made and he was eager to finish it. Salem came in bright and early the following day so Andy could start and he finished the tattoo by late afternoon. Salem wasn't sure he'd ever get a tattoo on his ribcage ever again. When Andy went over the bones of his ribs that hurt more than any of his other tattoos. But when he saw the end result, it was worth it. More than worth it. She was perfect. She was sexy, she was alluring and her eyes sparkled like the water they were colored after.
"So what's her name, Salem?" Andy asked.
"I wish I knew," Salem said. "Did you just come up with this or was she inspired by someone?"
"My only inspiration was you," Andy chuckled. "You said she had to have black hair and tan skin and eating cake batter and I went from there. I'm pleased you love her so much."
"Believe me I do," Salem smiled. "I can't wait to show this off."
"Me either," Andy said. "This will be added to my portfolio for sure. I'll have sailors coming to me for pinups in droves."
"We already do," Salem said and patted Andy's back. "She was expensive so it'll be a while before I can get another tattoo but I look forward to when I can."
"Me too," Andy answered.
When Salem returned to base, his comrades were eager to see the tattoo and they seemed just as infatuated with her like Salem was. Courtesy of Salem's recommendation, a number of his comrades that had only been considering maybe getting a pinup for themselves were now all too eager and Andy was swamped for weeks with requests to make every single one of these men their very own pinups of varying sizes, locations on the body and feminine 'ideals' ranging from women sailors, mermaids, school teachers and so on. When it was finally July, Salem was eagerly awaiting Natalie's visit. He'd double checked with the hotel to make absolutely sure everything was in order and worked tirelessly to make sure there wouldn't be too much work for the others to take over while he was out. It was Friday before Salem would be starting his vacation when he got a message from Andy telling him to come to the shop, so he did that afternoon.
"You summoned, Andy?" Salem joked once he entered the shop.
"Yes sir, I did," Andy said. "Your unnamed vixen won me more business than I've seen in a while. I wanted to extend a thank you so I'm offering to give you a free tattoo. Nothing huge, but something I think you'll appreciate."
"Really? What is it?" Salem asked eagerly.
"A cut in half orange with an orange blossom," Andy said. "I thought we could add it to the circle you're putting together on your back. I know you said you wanted that to be for places outside of the United States, but I like to think Florida's left enough of an impression to warrant its own spot."
"No, I want to be able to see it," Salem said. "Let's put it right here." Salem pointed at the top of his wrist on his left arm.
"Even better," Andy smiled. "Let's get you shaved and prepped."
Once he was prepped, the tattoo wound up taking Andy no time to finish. The orange was cut in half with the inside of the fruit in view and the orange blossom tucked at the center of the exposed fruit. Then, beneath the tattoo, Andy put the year: 1959. Salem knew Natalie wasn't going to be very happy with his pinup, but he was hoping she'd at least like the orange and orange blossom tattoo. The following day, he waited at the airport for Natalie's plane to land. He waited at least an hour and a half for her, but once he saw Natalie, he went right to her and took her in a hug.
"Welcome to Florida, mom," Salem said as they hugged.
"I can already feel the sunshine," she said and they released each other. She reached up to touch Salem's cheek and smiled. "You've certainly been enjoying it by the looks of you."
"When I'm working and recreationally," Salem said. "But I'm off for the week, so it's just you and me."
"I can't wait. You'll need to let me know where we can shop for souvenirs."
"There are more vendors on the beaches than you'll know what to do with, I promise," Salem said. "So guess what I got yesterday."
"Another tattoo?"
"A free tattoo," Salem said and lifted the cuff of his uniform so she could see the orange and orange blossom. "My pinup tattoo got the artist a lot of new business so he gave me a free tattoo as thanks."
"Well….this is at least very cute," Natalie said and then looked at Salem. "So how many tattoos have you gotten since you've been here?"
"This one, the pinup girl sitting on the anchor on my hip, an alligator on this arm and my pinup. So four."
"You got an alligator? Why?"
"Well," Salem started and wrapped his arm around Natalie's shoulder leading her away from the airport so they could get to the car he had burrowed, "it's a long story."
Salem then proceeded to relay the story to Natalie as they went to the car and once they'd reached it, Salem removed his uniform jacket and rolled up the sleeve of his dress shirt so he could show it to her. She might have liked the tattoo if the story behind it didn't nearly give her a heart attack. Once they were in the car, Natalie just groaned and rubbed her face.
"Sometimes you remind me a lot of your Uncle Nathan," Natalie said.
"Mom, that might be the nicest thing you've ever said to me," Salem teased and Natalie just swatted Salem's shoulder while he started laughing.
They went to the hotel first and Salem was pleased that Natalie liked the hotel so much. Since the hotel had a pool, Natalie asked that she be able to get into a sundress so they could go outside and just enjoy the sun. Then they met at the hotel pool and took up two lawn chairs just talking. Salem eventually got around to showing Natalie his pinup and while Natalie agreed, whether she wanted to or not, that the artwork was meticulously done she considered the tattoo needlessly graphic and distasteful. She had her two cents about that very thing and 'how are you going to explain this to your future wife' and so on. Salem let Natalie have her rant to get it out of her system not interrupting her and by the time they left the hotel to get some food for dinner, she'd had her fill and dropped it.
The next day, Salem, having gotten permission from Captain Lake already, brought Natalie to the Naval Base where he worked and introduced her to Captain Lake and several other men he worked with that were on Base on a Sunday. Salem had a small laugh at Captain Lake's expense since his commanding officer was clearly surprised by how young Natalie looked and was clearly smitten. "Remember, Captain, you're a married man," Salem would remind him constantly and Captain Lake would grumble a little and then return to whatever conversation he'd been having with Natalie. After that, Salem finally took Natalie to the beach to enjoy the sand and to find some vendors from whom she could buy some trinkets to take back home. They went to the beach again the following day but while they were on the beach sitting on a beach towel staring out at sea just talking, someone approached the towel.
"Salem?" Lilly's voice filled Salem's ear and he looked at her.
"Hey, Lilly," Salem said and then looked at Natalie. "Mom, this is Lilly Tanner. Lilly, this is my mother Natalie."
"This is…oh! Oh my goodness, I feel so silly, I thought – well, anyway, it's so nice to meet you!"
"It's nice to meet you too," Natalie said. "Are you a friend of Salem's?"
"Yeah, we met when I was working at The Seagull's Nest up the road from here. Your son was kind enough to force an alligator out of my parents' pool."
"Yes, he told me about that," Natalie said. "Won't you sit with us?"
"I'd be glad to," Lilly said and sat next to Salem. "I hope I'm not intruding. I have to say, you're absolutely stunning, Mrs. Dauer."
"Thank you for saying," Natalie said. "You can just call me Natalie. My last name is Rouge."
"Oh, right, you'd said your mother remarried," Lilly said. "Please forgive my mistake."
"It's no trouble at all, Lilly. So what do you do at The Seagull's Nest? That's a bar is it not?"
"I'm a singer and dancer and waitress when we're short staffed," Lilly said.
"Is that so? I was actually a singer and waitress for a few years before I remarried."
"Were you really?" Lilly asked, her eyes lighting up. "I'll bet you have the whole din swooning over you."
"They all knew better," Salem said. "We live in a really small town and everyone knows us. No one would in a million years have pursued my mom out of respect for my late father."
"Except Mr. Rouge I take it," Lilly said.
"Yes, except Suerro," Natalie smiled. "I hadn't wanted to ever remarry but in retrospect I'm happy I did. Suerro has been wonderful."
"He's a good guy," Salem said. "He was patient as a saint with my big brother, so he'd impressed me to be sure."
"Your husband and eldest son get along now, right? Salem told me a little about how the two of them didn't like each other."
"Their relationship has improved considerably," Natalie said. "It may have taken years, JJ getting married to a good woman who knocked some sense into him and a bizarre relationship where they poke fun at each other constantly, but they get along well now."
"That's what matters," Lilly smiled. She glanced down and finally noticed Salem's wrist and giggled. "You got another tattoo?"
"Yeah. A free one no less," Salem bragged.
"That's awfully exceptional quality for a free tattoo. I assume Andy did it right? How'd you get him to give you a free tattoo?"
"The pinup he did for me got him a bunch of new business from some of the guys I bunk with. This was a thank you for that."
"Well, it's precious," Lilly said. "I'm actually quite jealous of it in fact."
"I had a feeling you'd like this one," Salem smiled.
Natalie glanced between the two of them saying nothing but smiling a little. They spent several hours together on the beach with Natalie and Lilly speaking to each other as though they'd known each other for years. When the sun was going down, the three of them went out to dinner together and Natalie insisted they needed to at least drop Lilly off home despite Salem and Lilly trying to convince her otherwise. Salem kept his fingers crossed that nothing serious would happen, but luck wasn't on their side that night.
"It was a pleasure to meet you, Natalie. I can honestly say I now know where Salem gets his beaming personality."
"Well, thank you for saying, Lilly," Natalie said. Just then, the front door of the house opened and Natalie felt Lilly's hand freeze in hers. "Lilly, is everything alright?"
"Lilly, honey, is that you?" a man's voice sounded and Lilly turned to face the man who was now approaching them.
"Yeah, daddy, it's me. I'm so sorry I'm late coming home, but I bumped into a friend of mine and his mother's visiting. I was just trying to show her the best of Ft. Lauderdale." Natalie smiled pleasantly at the man and he seemed pleasant enough until he was close enough to see Natalie and Salem. His pleasant expression was gone in an instant and it made Natalie feel extremely uncomfortable. Salem didn't change his demeanor but he stayed on alert. Desperate to cut the tension, Lilly stayed sweet and pleasant. "Daddy, this is Petty Officer First Class Salem Dauer. This is his mother Natalie Rouge."
"You're his mother?" the man, Mr. Tanner, rose a brow at Natalie suspiciously.
"Yes, I'm his mother," Natalie said and tried to smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Tanner. Your daughter has been an absolutely joy."
"Yes she has," Mr. Tanner answered stiffly.
"Daddy," Lilly spoke up, "I've had poor Mrs. Rouge running around all over town showing her all the sites and I'm sure she's absolutely exhausted. And I know I'm working tomorrow and so are you, so let's get back inside and get some sleep."
"You especially," Mr. Tanner said to Lilly and then looked at Natalie and Salem. His gaze did not change from the suspicious and even scary stare he gave. "Thank you for bringing Lilly home. I hope she's shown you a pleasant day."
"She most certainly has, Mr. Tanner," Natalie answered pleasantly. "You raised a wonderful young woman."
"I know," Mr. Tanner said. "Have a good evening." He then took a hold of Lilly's arm and led her inside. She turned to wave goodbye to Salem and they waited until she was back in the house before starting to walk home.
"Did Lilly have a curfew? I wish she would have said something then we could've returned her home at a reasonable hour. I hope her father's not too upset with her."
"Lilly will be alright," Salem said. "If what Lilly's told me is to be believed, all she'll have to fear is a booming voice and angry words."
"All over being home late?" Natalie asked.
"Not….necessarily," Salem started and hesitated. "We'll talk when I get you back to the hotel." Salem stayed quiet through the remainder of their walk back to the hotel and then walked her up to her room. When they were in Natalie's room, she was the one that finally broke the silence.
"What's the matter that we couldn't talk on our way here?"
"I don't really know how to say this delicately so I'll just be blunt about it. Lilly's father is a former Ku Klux Klan member-"
"What?!" Natalie yelled.
"Mom, lower your voice," Salem implored. "As I was saying, Lilly says he's not a member anymore but he apparently still sends financial donations."
"You mean to tell me you're dating a girl whose father is a Klansman?"
"Mom, we're not 'dating', we're just….I don't know….intimate I guess," Salem said. When Natalie didn't say anything, Salem looked up at her and actually felt a chill run up his spine. He'd never seen his mother furious. Upset with him? Yes. Annoyed with him? Plenty. But he'd never seen her truly furious with him.
"How long have you known about this?"
"A while," Salem answered honestly. "I didn't know about this when she and I started…seeing each other I guess. We've both been very honest with each other so please don't think I'm stringing her along or taking advantage of her."
"I'm a little more concerned with the fact that you've deemed it sensible to continue any manner of relationship with a woman whose father is the worst kind of bigot: a violent one."
"Lilly isn't like her dad," Salem said. "She's well aware of her father's crimes and she condemns his actions. She's not at fault and I wouldn't treat her like she is."
"I'm not saying she should be, Salem," Natalie softened a little but not by much. "But regardless of her being innocent in any of her father's dealings doesn't mean you aren't liable to find yourself at the wrong end of them. Especially if that man were to find out that you and Lilly's relationship is 'intimate' as you put it." Salem didn't say anything and rubbed the back of his neck with a heavy sigh. "If the two of you have an understanding as you say you do, then I'm sure she would never tell him that's what's going on. Regardless, I don't think it's a good idea to risk angering that girl's father."
"You think I can't stand up to him?"
"Salem, that's not what's important right now," Natalie scolded. "I know you could stand up to the man but I would prefer the need never come up. She's a nice girl and it's not fair to put her in a position like that."
"Yeah, I know," Salem grumbled and rubbed his face. "Alright, I'll talk to her. I'll tell her we have to be just friends and end anything going on beyond that. She'll understand."
"Good," Natalie said. "I'm sorry to insist, Salem, but I don't want you to get caught up in anything."
"I know, mom," Salem answered. Natalie closed the distance between the two of them and sat down next to Salem on the edge of the bed.
"You and your brother; always insisting on giving me more reasons to worry," Natalie said, trying to lighten the mood. Salem smiled a little and patted Natalie's hand.
"We never intend to, mom," Salem said.
"It's a shame too. I really liked her. I saw the way the two of you were looking at each other so I was hoping maybe you'd met someone special."
"Mom, if she were special like that, I would have told you. Trust me: when I finally find her, you'll be the first one I tell."
"Do you promise?" Natalie asked with a gentle smile.
"Absolutely," Salem said and leaned over to kiss Natalie's cheek. "It'll take a while, though, mom. Whoever I imprint on will have to measure up to you and then some."
"I see you're trying to flatter me so I'll forget about this evening," Natalie said and smiled at Salem suspiciously.
"I can't get away with anything can I?" Salem joked and they shared a light laugh.
"In all seriousness, please keep Lilly at arm's length. I agree she's not the one at fault here, but I don't want you to get in trouble with her father for the 'sin' of being Native American." Natalie said the last part of her statement with a deep cut of sarcasm.
"Don't worry mom. I'll take care of it," Salem said and kissed her cheek again before standing. "I'll get going. You get some sleep. I'll be back tomorrow around lunchtime okay?"
"I'll see you then, Salem," Natalie said and walked Salem out and he returned to base without incident.
The next day, Salem went to the hotel around noon like they'd discussed and the two of them stayed at the beach for a while. That took up the majority of Natalie's remaining time in Florida. They would stay at the beach, soak up the sun while they talked and then Salem would bring her back to the hotel for the night. When Saturday came, Salem walked with Natalie through the airport getting her to her plane and stayed at the terminal until the plane flew away. They'd had their goodbyes, Natalie reminded Salem to be safe and to keep in touch and also promised she'd write as soon as she returned home. Once Salem left the airport, he went back to base figuring he'd relax before he'd have to return to business as usual come Monday. Aaron and Harry eventually found him lying in his bunk reading and convinced him to go out drinking with them to which he agreed. They made the walk from base to The Seagull's Nest and got their usual table towards the stage.
"So was your mother sad to leave Florida?" Aaron asked once they were seated.
"She had a really good time, but I think she's happy to return home. She missed Suerro and Birdie."
"Suerro's the stepdad and Birdie's your little brother right?" Harry asked.
"Yeah," Salem said.
"Why didn't they come with?" Aaron asked.
"Mom and I wanted to visit just the two of us. Besides, Suerro's not one for sunny places," Salem said knowingly.
"Good thing he lives in Washington then," Harry chuckled.
"Salem," Lilly's voice came and they turned to face her as she approached the table.
"Afternoon, Lilly," Salem smiled at her. "About the other day: if you got in any trouble because we dropped you off late, I'm really sorry."
"It's alright," Lilly said. "Daddy had his two cents but he got over it quickly enough. It was a pleasure to meet your mother. She's a lovely woman."
"No one like her," Salem said.
"You were introduced to his mother?" Aaron asked, raising a brow.
"Not like that," Lilly giggled. "I happened upon them while they were at the beach and I thought to extend the invitation to show her around town."
"Lilly was a great tour guide," Salem smiled.
"Since I'm here, did the two of you want anything to drink? Eat?"
"Three whiskeys and some fries sound great," Aaron said and Salem and Harry agreed to the order. After Lilly excused herself to get the order, Aaron turned his attention to Salem with a smile. "Introduced her to your mother, eh?"
"Like Lilly said, it wasn't like that," Salem answered. "Lilly and I are completely platonic with some benefits on the side and I've made my mother clear on that."
"And what did your mother have to say about that?" Harry asked with a chuckle.
"She was annoyed with me but she got over it," Salem said. Shortly thereafter, Lilly came back with their drinks and said their food would be out shortly before she left to get ready to sing. Salem and the others talked amongst themselves about nothing in particular nibbling on their fries when they finally got there. Then, after they'd been there for a while and Lilly was finally about to start her number with Maggie and Peggy, someone approached their table and the three of them looked up to see none other than Mr. Tanner and Devin.
"Can we help you, sir?" Harry asked.
"I just happened to see you all when I came in and thought I'd join you. If that's alright with you," Mr. Tanner said. "Devin here said he knew the three of you."
"In passing," Aaron said and then smiled. "Take a seat, sir. You're correct: we know who Devin is. Might I ask who you are sir?"
"Ronald Tanner," the man answered. "I'm Lilly's father."
"Oh," Aaron and Harry seemed to mutter simultaneously and then looked at Salem briefly and then right back at him.
"I hope we're not in trouble for the pool parties we've enjoyed at your house," Harry said.
"Not at all," Mr. Tanner smiled at Harry and then looked at Salem, his expression becoming considerably less pleasant. "You're the man that brought Lilly home the other night are you not?"
"Yes sir," Salem answered respectfully. "Petty Officer First Class Salem Dauer – Sonarman."
"And how do you know Lilly?" Mr. Tanner asked.
"My crewman and I are patrons of this bar and we all became friends with Lilly, Maggie and Peggy."
"I see," Mr. Tanner said.
"This is also the guy that wrestled the alligator out of your pool singlehandedly, Ron," Devin said.
"Is that so?" Mr. Tanner asked, appearing less impressed with the story and more so upset that Salem was at his house.
"Saw it with our own eyes, sir," Harry spoke up. "Poor Lilly and her friends saw that thing crawl over the fence into the pool and rather than wait for animal control, Salem here got the alligator out of the pool all by himself."
"And why wouldn't you just wait for animal control?" Mr. Tanner asked.
"The lizard monster was cutting into my relaxing time, sir," Salem answered. To his relief, Mr. Tanner smirked a little, but he'd gotten the expression under control near immediately. Devin, on the other hand, did audibly chuckle just a little.
"I'd say that's motivation enough," Devin said to Mr. Tanner.
"You should have seen it, sir," Aaron spoke up with a smile. "He manhandled that alligator better than any boy born to the bayou."
"And where are you from, Mr. Dauer?" Mr. Tanner asked.
"Forks, Washington. It's a tiny town west of the mountains near Seattle."
"Not on a reservation?" Mr. Tanner asked.
"Our tribe resides beside Forks and we're in close relation with them," Salem said. "We had a trade agreement with them previously but when my grandma and grandpa got married, it improved our relationship with Forks considerably. And then, of course, my dad worked for the owner of the General Store in town and not a soul on planet earth didn't love my dad, so he did wonders for that relationship as well. Hailey Dauer is as good as an uncle or second father to me and my siblings. My dad took his last name to honor the man and everything."
"You don't say," Mr. Tanner muttered. "You said relations improved when your grandparents married. You mean one of them was white?"
"My grandma," Salem answered.
"And, evidently, his older brother is a Korean War veteran," Devin spoke up. "A former POW no less, right?" Devin turned to ask Salem the question.
"Yes, he's a former POW. He and I think five others were captured and my brother managed to get himself and his men out of that North Korean camp alive."
"Heroic indeed," Mr. Tanner said, but he still appeared rather cold. "So tell me Mr. Dauer: what all is going on between you and my daughter?" Harry and Aaron went a little stiff, though without truly knowing the full severity of the situation and Mr. Tanner's question. All the same, Salem remained calm.
"If you're asking if Miss Tanner and I are involved romantically, we are not," Salem lied. It would be true soon enough anyway. "My relationship with Miss Tanner is strictly platonic."
"My daughter comes back home later than she'd been permitted to be with you at her side and your relationship is 'platonic'?"
"I remind you that my mother was with us," Salem said.
"Your mother you say," Mr. Tanner said, starting to get aggressive and probably finally getting to the point of his sitting with them in the first place. "How old was your mother when she had you? She appears very young to have two sons that apparently have served in the Armed Forces."
"My mom was 21 when my oldest brother was born," Salem answered, admittedly starting to get a little defensive. "Although I don't see how my mother's age is any of your business."
"21?" Mr. Tanner said, appeared to think a moment and then said, "You expect me to believe that woman is 51?"
"She turns 51 in December," Salem said confidently.
"Trust me, sir, we didn't believe it ourselves," Harry spoke up. "Salem here knocked me on my ass for flirting with her. She's a woman that's clearly aging gracefully."
"Very gracefully so it would seem," Mr. Tanner said.
"With all due respect, Mr. Tanner, what exactly are you trying to imply?" Salem asked with a firm tone.
"I'm merely making enquiry over the reason my daughter was out so late with two strangers," Mr. Tanner answered.
"I'm hardly a stranger, Mr. Tanner. I'm a friend," Salem said.
"Ron," Devin spoke up, "I'm sure it probably is exactly as Lilly had said: they met on the beach and she was showing them around. It's in Lilly's nature to be friendly to everyone. You know that."
"That's exactly what happened," Salem agreed. "You have my word, Mr. Tanner: Miss Tanner is only a good friend. She was gracious and hospitable when she found my mother and I out on the beach and she only thought to show my mother a good time and the best of Ft. Lauderdale and doing so far better than I'd been." Mr. Tanner stared at Salem a moment critically but in silence. No one at the table said anything for how awkward it was. No one noticed that Lilly, Maggie and Peggy had finished their musical number and Lilly approached the table, speeding up as soon as she realized her father was there.
"Daddy," Lilly said, keeping her smile pleasant. "I didn't realize you were here."
"It's alright, honey. I just came here to have a drink and thought I'd properly introduce myself to your friends." If Salem could say even the remotest positive about the man, he certainly turned to a giant teddy bear when his daughter was near.
"I'll make sure the bartender knows to bill me for the drinks."
"You'll do no such thing, Lilly," Mr. Tanner said. "You earned your pay here. You'll not waste it on your drunk old man." Lilly finally smiled genuinely.
"You're not a drunk, daddy," Lilly said. Then she glanced briefly at Salem and then returned her attention to Mr. Tanner. "You're not being mean to them, are you?"
"I don't think so," Mr. Tanner said.
"Don't worry, Lilly. The men and I were just telling Mr. Tanner about our service. I'd been meaning to ask, sir. Have you ever served in the armed forces? I think Lilly had said her…brother in law served in Europe right?"
"He did," Mr. Tanner said. "He died a hero."
"I lost my father to the 2nd World War," Salem said. "He was killed by a German sniper during the Liberation of Paris. He'd died saving another man's life. It won him a Medal of Honor and a Purple Heart. My brother still has those in a frame at his house."
"My condolences," Mr. Tanner said but Salem noticed the man's eye twitch at the revelation that Salem's father had won a Medal of Honor. "And a lofty honor."
"One that was well deserved," Salem said. "Did you ever serve in the military Mr. Tanner?"
"I had enlisted but was turned away due to health reasons," Mr. Tanner said.
"Health reasons?" Aaron asked.
"I'm color blind," Mr. Tanner said. It took everything in Salem not to laugh out loud. He was proud of himself for keeping quiet.
"I suppose that would make serving the military difficult," Salem said.
"I see the colors that matter," Mr. Tanner said pointedly and right at Salem.
"Daddy," Lilly quickly said, "I didn't even ask what you wanted to drink. How does a beer sound?"
"A beer would be lovely, sweetheart. Thank you," Mr. Tanner said.
"Devin, did you want anything?"
"I'm fine for now," Devin smiled pleasantly. Lilly nodded and stopped one of the other waitresses asking her to bring a beer so that she wouldn't have to leave. After Mr. Tanner's comment, she wasn't about to leave her father alone with Salem for a moment, even if Devin was there to help. "So, Salem, did you say you're expecting a new niece or nephew?"
"Yeah, my brother and his wife are expecting their third child," Salem answered. "My eldest nephew was born Christmas Day, but thankfully the other two aren't cursed with such a busy birth date."
"I would hope so," Devin chuckled. "Poor kid couldn't just prolong his birth for a few more days, eh?"
"It doesn't seem so," Salem said. "My brother had managed to get back home on Christmas Day and I think my nephew was just excited for daddy to be home."
"That's understandable," Lilly smiled. "Are your brother and sister-in-law planning to have any more children after this?"
"They are to my knowledge," Salem shrugged. "I think, secretly, my sister-in-law likes being pregnant. She's 4' 11" and my brother's over 6 feet tall."
"Jesus Christ," Devin said.
"No kidding. My little sister and I used to tease her ruthlessly, but she's the best thing that could have ever happened to my brother. Anyway, because she's so petite, when she's pregnant she'll start showing almost immediately. By the time she's approaching full term, she can barely move by herself. What she likes, though, is the special treatment she gets because of it. I kid you not, I was with her when she was at the grocers one day and when she was shopping, people parted like the Red Sea to give her space and people went out of their way to be helpful and they'd let her have first pick of any produce. Certainly helps that JJ spoils her rotten as it is. Normally he treats her like a princess. When she's pregnant, he treats her like a Messiah."
"By that logic, no wonder she enjoys being pregnant," Harry said.
"She'd never admit it of course, but I do think she secretly likes being pregnant."
"Who could blame her?" Lilly smiled. Finally, the waitress came back with Mr. Tanner's beer and then walked away. "Is mom going to be coming?"
"It's Bridge night, remember?" Mr. Tanner said.
"Oh, yes, my mistake."
"How could you forget, honey? You're mother's nearly gambled us out of house and home with her Bridge friends," Mr. Tanner chuckled.
"Only because she knows you'll be there to swoop in and save the day," Lilly said and Mr. Tanner huffed and rolled his eyes a little but still had a smile.
"Damned good thing I do," Mr. Tanner said. "Are any of you familiar with Bridge?"
"No," they all answered and then Salem said, "I am familiar with Poker. I'm not so ruthless as my brother and Uncle Hailey, but I know how to play."
"I'm not fond of Poker," Mr. Tanner said and sipped his beer. "Lilly, are you going to be singing again?"
"My number's up again in another twenty minutes," Lilly said after glancing at the clock.
"I'll stay until after you've sung then," Mr. Tanner said. "You don't have to stand by and eavesdrop on us, pumpkin."
"Daddy, I'm not eavesdropping. I'm just making sure you're being nice to my friends," Lilly said and made sure she said so in a sweet, girly tone.
"I'm being nice," Mr. Tanner said defensively.
"I'm just making sure," Lilly teased.
Lilly stayed at the table trying her best to keep any conversation strictly between her and Mr. Tanner in the hopes to prevent her father from saying anything inflammatory. When her number was up, Salem told her he'd get going back to the base and said goodbye to her and the others. A more serious talk would need to wait until they could speak privately. Salem stepped outside and took a deep breath of the salty air. He'd never felt so uncomfortable in his life. The smell of the ocean and people's cigarettes helped bring him back to reality and he was ready to go back to base and get some well-deserved sleep.
"Indian," he heard Mr. Tanner's voice from behind him and Salem turned to face the man. He was alone, Devin absent and unable to defuse any temper Salem feared this man might hold.
"Mr. Tanner," Salem answered, choosing to ignore the attempt at insult.
"I'll get to the point; all bullshit aside. I expect you to stay far away from my daughter."
"I'm sorry, you 'expect' me?" Salem said and turned to face the man completely.
"Yes, I 'expect'," Mr. Tanner said. "My daughter has better things to do than waste time with the likes of you."
"Well, shit," Salem said, chuckling a little for a lack of any other way to react. "Alright, Mr. Tanner. You got to the point, so I will too. I realize you're trying to intimidate me and I'm sure it's worked for you in the past. But you don't scare me."
"You just don't know better," Mr. Tanner said.
"I assure you, Mr. Tanner, I'm fully aware what means you people implement in order to maintain your racial pecking order, but the difference is you were dealing with people that had no means of defending themselves and no one to turn to. I'm demonstrably neither of those things."
Mr. Tanner's brow rose both with anger and intrigue all at once, "You're telling me you're aware of my affiliations and yet still had the nerve to speak to my daughter?"
"For the record, Mr. Tanner, your daughter introduced herself to me," Salem said. "So if you feel I'm not worthy to breath the same air as her much less speak to her, you may want to discuss the matter with her."
"You're right about one thing at least: you're not worthy to breath the same air."
"Forgive me, Mr. Tanner. I didn't realize there was White Air and Colored Air. Please excuse my mistake," Salem said sarcastically.
"So long as I've made my point," Mr. Tanner said. "Just stay away from my daughter and you'll have nothing to worry about. She's a darling thing and she's soft-hearted. It can't be helped. I'll only say you need to be the smart one here and stay away from her."
"Salem," Aaron said as he and Harry stepped outside. They saw Salem and Mr. Tanner and could feel the tension. "Is everything alright?"
"Everything's fine," Salem smiled and looked at Mr. Tanner. "Mr. Tanner was just getting some fresh air. He was just about to go back inside." He didn't move right away. Salem noticed Mr. Tanner appear visibly irritated, but he did eventually retreat back inside. Aaron and Harry stared after him but quickly looked back at Salem.
"What the hell was that?" Harry asked. Rather than answer right away, Salem asked them to come with him back to base. They did and once they were on the boardwalk more or less alone, Salem relayed what happened.
"Mr. Tanner's a Klansman?" Aaron asked.
"Former Klansman from what I'm told," Salem said. "Although it doesn't really matter. He made very clear he doesn't want me anywhere near Lilly and while he didn't outright threaten me, I wouldn't put it past him."
"Salem, don't test that man's patience," Aaron said. "We'll stand by you and we'll stand up for you, but you're dealing with a man that's made a craft of committing murder and getting away with it."
"A task made simple when the authorities are on your side," Salem said. "He doesn't have such a luxury. At least not within the base. I'll talk to Captain Lake about what happened."
"For…?" Aaron enquired.
"For backup," Salem said. "Hell, maybe even just for support. That way if things were to get bad, at least our commanding officer knows the situation, same as you two, and has the means to get the right repercussions in motion."
"It can only help I guess," Harry said. "Don't worry, Salem. If he does pull anything, we'll whistle bow his ass straight to jail."
"Phrasing," Aaron said and laughed, gently punching Harry's shoulder. When they returned to the base, Salem went straight to Captain Lake's office and came in after receiving permission to enter. Captain Lake stopped what he'd been working on and stood from his desk.
"Officer Dauer," Captain Lake said, "to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit? Did you miss us so much you wish to end your vacation now?"
"You've read my mind, sir," Salem smiled, the two saluted one another and Captain Lake instructed Salem to sit. "If I'm honest, sir, I wanted to confide in you."
"In me?" Captain Lake said. "What did you do?"
"Only made friends with a girl whose father is…displeased with me to say the least," Salem said.
"You got her pregnant didn't you?"
"What? No! No, sir, that's not what this is about."
"Oh, thank God," Captain Lake breathed out and rubbed his face a little. "Alright, since you're not in line for a shotgun wedding, what's this girl's father got against you? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but anything that pertains to matters of the heart I'm not always the best shoulder to cry on."
"It's not a matter of the heart, sir. Just a matter of covering my ass as it were. You know I'm Native American, right?"
"A blind man with half a brain would know you're an Indian," Captain Lake said. "What's that got to do with anything?"
"Well, sir, it's been brought to my attention that Lilly's father is a former Ku Klux Klan member and he made no qualms with expression his displeasure with my association with his daughter. His approach struck me as….threatening to be blunt given his previous affiliations."
"God damn it," Captain Lake groaned. "You couldn't make it simple and just gotten a girl pregnant could you?"
"I'm confident in stating, sir, that if she were pregnant, he'd not have bothered 'warning' me," Salem said.
"No, he would not," Captain Lake said. "Did he actually do anything?"
"No, sir. He only made clear he wanted me to be the smart one in the situation and stay away from Lilly so I would 'have nothing to worry about'," Salem said.
"Your mother wasn't with you was she? I'd hate to think she's gotten mixed up in this shit because you did something stupid."
"No, Captain, mom's already flown back to Washington," Salem sighed. "Seriously, Captain, my mother's married. Let it go before it gets ugly."
"Advice you really should have headed," Captain Lake said. "I can't believe I keep having to tell you boys this, but you really, REALLY, need to start thinking with the head on your shoulders."
"I didn't know her dad's affiliations when we first met," Salem said. "Besides, I'm only bringing this up as an insurance policy. If anything happens, you know who did it. Aaron and Harry can attest to what happened."
"Salem," Captain Lake said in a pleading tone, "I'll be blunt, kid. I like you. You're a good Officer and good at what you do. But I don't know what you think we'd be able to do about this besides contact authorities. And they wouldn't be able to prove anything on a threat alone. I've no doubt that uncle of yours is a great lawyer, but I highly doubt even he could materialize evidence out of his ass."
"I suppose that's true," Salem said, "But at least I've made a commanding officer aware of potential danger to one of his men that has nothing to do with fighting for one's country."
"All he told you to do was stay away from his daughter?" Captain Lake asked.
"Yes, sir," Salem said.
"Then I suggest you do as the man asks and be done with it," Captain Lake said. "I know full well how you feel about Miss Tanner and I guarantee you it's not worth dealing with her father. If you really loved her, I could understand you behaving stupidly, but that's not what's going on. Right?" he asked.
"No, sir," Salem sighed. "She's just a good friend."
"Then I say end things now and be done with it," Captain Lake said. "By the sound of things, he just gave you the old 'grumpy father' talking to. I'd prefer it stayed that way."
"Yes, sir," Salem answered.
"Good," Captain Lake said. "Your mother worries about you enough as it is. No need to make it worse." Salem took a deep breath and rolled his eyes.
"Yes, dad," Salem answered sarcastically.
"I mean it, Salem. Just stay out of the man's way. If things get worse, the only thing I could do was have you transferred. Frankly, I know you'd prefer we not do that." Salem didn't answer and Captain Lake was the one to eventually break the silence. "Just stay away from that man and his daughter if possible. If anything else happens then tell me, but I need you to do your part."
"Yes, sir," Salem sighed heavily.
"Good man," Captain Lake said. "Now get out; enjoy your last day of vacation. Come Monday, you'll be worked to the bone as usual."
"Thanks for the talk, Captain," Salem answered and stood from the chair as did Captain Lake.
"I know it feels like backing down, Salem, but trust me: she's not worth the trouble. Best to just let it go," Captain Lake said.
"I know, sir," Salem sighed. "I'll talk to you later."
They saluted one another and Salem finally left the office to return to the bunks so he could relax and get some sleep. The problem arose that Salem just couldn't sleep that night. He wasn't sure what he'd expected Captain Lake to say, but it hadn't been for the man to effectively tell him to cower in the corner like a dog with his tail between his legs. He didn't want to back down to a man that effectively threatened him. It was the principle of the matter. Since he couldn't sleep, he was awake and out of bed bright and early Sunday morning. He needed to talk to someone but he didn't want to talk to anyone on base. So Salem left the base walking around town until he found a coffee shop that had a phone booth outside. He went inside, got coffee and some donuts and then went into the phone booth. He fed the coins into the machine and dialed the first number that came to mind.
"Who the hell is this?" JJ's groggy voice came from the other end.
"You're little brother," Salem said with a light humored smile.
"What time is it there?" JJ asked.
"8 in the morning," Salem said.
"It's four here," JJ groaned.
"Oh, right," Salem said, "I forgot about the time difference. I just needed someone to talk to, but I can call back later."
"No, no, it's fine. Just give me a second to go downstairs," JJ said and he heard the phone be put down. He overheard JJ ask Eun Mi, who'd also evidently been woken up, to put the phone back on the hook once he'd picked up the phone in the kitchen. A few minutes later, Salem heard the receivers move around again before JJ spoke. "There we go," JJ said. "Last thing Eun Mi needs right now is me keeping her up."
"You know, I'd told a few friends that Eun Mi must secretly love being pregnant for how good she gets it when she is," Salem chuckled and JJ did too, but it was groggy.
"I try to make it as painless as I can," JJ said. "So what did you want to talk to me about?"
"It's about that girl I'm seeing. Or kind of seeing," Salem shrugged.
"Lilly, right? What about her?"
"I met her dad the other day," Salem said. "Mom was with me and we were dropping Lilly off home. I saw him again yesterday at the bar she works at and he told me in no uncertain terms that I'm not to see Lilly again."
"What did you tell him?"
"I didn't really get to tell him much," Salem said. "Aaron and Harry came outside to check on me before the conversation could get really heated. As it is, he came just short of threatening me with the wrath of his Klansman friends."
"His what?" JJ asked. "This guy's a Klansman?"
"Former Klansman," Salem said, "but he still makes donations as I understand it."
"Oh, is that all? Then you should be fine," JJ said sarcastically. "So what are you going to do? You can't keep seeing Lilly."
"That's what I wanted to talk to you about actually," Salem said. "I've known for a while about her dad."
"And you continued seeing her? Why?"
"Because I still like her," Salem said. "She's not like her dad and it's not fair to her."
"I thought things weren't serious between the two of you," JJ said. "Certainly not enough to make dealing with her dad worth it."
"It's not about whether or not things are serious between me and Lilly," Salem said. "It's the principle of the matter."
"This is hardly the time to be proud, Salem," JJ said. "You've seen the news as much as I have so you know what these people will do. That's just to innocent people. Imagine what they'd do if one of their own perceived you guilty of a crime that personally effects them. Best case scenario, they'll tie you to the back of one of their trucks by your balls and drag you behind them going full speed."
"That's best case scenario?" Salem tried joking, but JJ wasn't laughing.
"Salem, if it's not because you love Lilly and she's worth the effort, then you're better off knowing when to back down," JJ said. "She's not your imprint. You've made that pretty clear. So why put yourself through the trouble of dealing with her dad? For the principle of the matter? That's not a good enough reason frankly."
"Easy for you to say," Salem grumbled. "You're not the one that's backing down and being told who you can and cannot be associated with."
"Believe me, Salem, I know it's a hit to your ego. I get it. But sometimes, part of growing up is knowing when to pick your battles."
"Giving life lessons now, old man?" Salem teased.
"I have experience with which to do so," JJ answered. "Trust me, Salem: this isn't a battle worth fighting. If she were your imprint that would be different, but you're friends with benefits at best."
"So I back down and then what? He wins and does this to someone else? That's not right either."
"No, it's not, but that doesn't mean you antagonize the man," JJ said. "Obviously you'll need to talk to Lilly and let her know what happened, but I say just cut your losses and wash your hands of the matter."
"So I punish Lilly for her father's actions," Salem said bitterly.
"Again, Salem, your relationship is not serious enough that any of this is worth it. She'll be upset, sure, but better her being upset than you personally being on the Klan's shit list. Seriously, Salem. Either they'll kill you or you'll successfully defend yourself and just get into legal trouble. There's only so much the Navy could do or even would do if you were accused of assaulting civilians and Kevin can only get you out of so much, especially in a southern state. Honestly think for a moment: who's side do you think the courts and your peers in the state of Florida are going to take regardless of what happens? Best case scenario: you'll be dishonorably discharged." That immediately got Salem's attention and when JJ heard Salem sigh heavily, he knew he'd finally made his point. "Figures all I had to do was bring the risk to your meal ticket to your attention."
"JJ, I like serving in the Navy," Salem said. "It's been the best decision I've ever made."
"I agree," JJ said. "This is a good path for you. I don't want you throwing it away over pride. Especially when Lilly has very little to do with it. And you know full well she does. There are things worth fighting for: Pride isn't high on that list. Many are led to ruin over pride. Don't be one of them."
"I guess you're right," Salem groaned. "God damn you for making sense."
"You'll thank me later," JJ said. "Nip it in the butt, find a way to talk to her and explain what happened and be done with it. From what you've said of her, she sounds like a reasonable girl and she'll understand. I doubt she'll like it, but she'll understand."
"I know," Salem said. He grabbed one of his donuts and shoved the whole thing in his mouth out of frustration.
"Are you eating?" Salem tried saying, 'A chocolate donut', but it was through a full mouth and he was unintelligible. "Jesus, Salem, at least finish chewing."
Salem swallowed down the donut and then took a sip of his hot coffee, "I said a chocolate donut. I was in a bad mood all night and I feel like eating my feelings right now."
"Just don't make a habit of it," JJ said. "So when do you suspect you'll be able to talk to her?"
"Hell if I know," Salem said and took a bite of another donut. He finished chewing before continuing. "I was already planning to tell her we should just be friends. Mom found out about this whole sorted business of Mr. Tanner's former Klan membership and she asked that I keep Lilly at an arm's length. Now I'm being told we can't even be friends."
"I know it's not fair, but life isn't always fair," JJ said.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah," Salem groaned and took another bite of his donut and a sip of coffee. "You know, I'd gone to Captain Lake hoping for back up and he told me the same fucking thing you're telling me."
"Smart guy," JJ said.
"Before I could explain any of this, his first guess was that I'd knocked someone up," Salem said.
"You haven't I hope."
"Damn it, no, I haven't," Salem said. "Though maybe I should. Give Mr. Tanner something worth bitching about."
"Salem, I swear to God if you do, Mr. Tanner won't get the chance to kill you," JJ said. "Be a sensible human being and wait until you've found someone to spend your life with before you start reproducing. Think of what Uncle Nathan has to deal with raising Ivory."
"Last I heard, Ivory was living with him until further notice," Salem said.
"After only getting to see her twice a year through her whole childhood," JJ said. "I realize you're being flippant, but think rationally will you?"
"I'm being rational," Salem said and bit into another donut and sipped more coffee. They were interrupted when a message sounded from the phone saying he needed to put in more coins.
"You're on a payphone? Why didn't you call me on base?"
"Because I wanted us to talk privately and without a time limit," Salem answered.
"So long as you pay up at least," JJ said.
"I have the change for it; don't worry," Salem said and finished his last donut and took another sip of coffee. "I don't suppose we could keep this between us could we?"
"You mean between us and the pack?" JJ asked. "I can't keep all this from them."
"That I can deal with," Salem groaned, "but I don't want this shit getting around to anyone else. Bad enough mom knows about this guy and she'll find out it escalated not hours after she left Florida."
"This won't go outside the pack," JJ promised, "but you need to back down. I know you don't want to, but you have to. It's not worth the trouble."
"Yeah, yeah, I get it. You already said that," Salem said and chugged the rest of his coffee. "Now I just need to talk to Lilly about this. Just because her dad's being a prick shouldn't mean we can't talk like adults."
"So long as that's the end of it," JJ said. "Make a point of it. And you know what? Just because I know mom's going to ask, can you call me as soon as this has been dealt with? If I'm not home, call the General Store's phone."
"I will," Salem answered. "Well, I've had my coffee and donuts. I'll let you get back to bed."
"Would you?" JJ said and they laughed a little. "Get back to me once this is resolved okay?"
"I will," Salem said and the two disconnected.
He heard the coins move around in the machine a moment before he left the booth and started walking back to base. He knew Lilly worked on Sunday afternoons, so when it was the start of her shift, Salem made the walk to The Seagull's Nest. He went inside and surveyed the room just to make sure Mr. Tanner was nowhere to be found. He wasn't much to Salem's relief. He asked one of the waitresses for Lilly and was directed to the back near the dressing rooms. He knocked the door and Peggy answered the door.
"Officer Dauer," Peggy said kindly, "to what do we owe this pleasure? You really shouldn't be back here, but we'll make an exception."
"I actually needed to talk to Lilly," Salem said.
"Peggy," Lilly said and stepped forward already in one of her costumes, "would you actually mind letting Officer Dauer and I talk?"
"Everything okay?" Peggy asked, noticing Lilly's tone.
"It's about my dad," Lilly said and Peggy sighed.
"Oh boy," Peggy said and then looked at Salem patting his shoulder. "I'll leave you both to it then." Peggy walked out as Salem walked in and Lilly closed the door behind them.
"I don't suppose your dad told you he said I was to stay away from you did he?"
"Daddy only said you and he had a 'discussion' as he worded it. He didn't go into any further detail but I had a feeling I knew what he meant. If he threatened you I'm so sorry."
"He didn't threaten me per se," Salem said. "He came just short of it. Although he did make clear he didn't want us being friends anymore."
"I figured as much," Lilly said. "I did try to tell him we were just friends and that he was being overly protective, but he wasn't having it."
"Yeah, same here," Salem said. "He doesn't know we've been-"
"Dear God, no," Lilly rubbed her head, "he wouldn't have let you off with a warning if he knew. Hell, he wouldn't let me off with a warning. Daddy doesn't know I'm sexually active. Oh, God, if he knew, he'd be livid."
"I suppose I can understand that last part at least," Salem shrugged. "I admit mom noticed your dad was really hostile when we dropped you off. She assumed he was mad because you were late or something, but I let her know about….well, you know."
"You told her?" Lilly asked. "Salem, that's not her…." Then she sighed. "Of course it is. You're her son. I take it she was telling you the same thing daddy said?"
"She said we would be better off no longer being intimate," Salem said. "I was planning to tell you we should just be regular friends, but then your dad gave me a talking to and it looks like he won't accept any less than us not talking to each other anymore." Lilly was quiet as she looked at him. He took a good hard look at her and thought about what JJ said. He realized JJ was right. Salem liked her. She was a nice girl. But it just wasn't worth it. "I'm sorry, Lilly. But under the circumstances, I think we're better off biting the bullet and not seeing each other anymore." Lilly seemed to release a breath in a small, sad sigh.
"And here I was somewhat hoping you'd do the reckless thing and say we should continue seeing each other anyway," Lilly said and smiled briefly but it didn't last. "But you're right. Cutting ties would be the sensible thing."
"Trust me, Lilly," Salem said with a gentle smile, "I'm not worth the trouble."
"I don't know," Lilly said. "I certainly think you're worth it." There was a silence between them that, for Salem, became extremely uncomfortable. "Can I confess something?"
"Sure," Salem said.
"I was starting to really fall for you," Lilly admitted.
"Lilly," Salem started but she stopped him.
"It's okay. I know you don't feel that way," Lilly said. "I guess it's good that we're ending things before it got serious."
"Exactly," Salem answered. "Well, I guess feel free to give your dad a piece of your mind. Might be alright to do so since this will no doubt bolster his ego."
"I might just do that," Lilly attempted to joke. "Well, it was fun."
"Yeah," Salem smiled reassuringly and turned to leave. "Break a leg out there, okay, Lilly?"
"I will," she smiled back and Salem finally left the room. He walked past Peggy who seemed like she'd been listening in despite her efforts to make it seem like she hadn't been. She rushed back into the dressing while Salem walked away and out of the bar. When he stepped outside, he took a deep breath of the salty air and groaned a little.
"So what happened?" Salem heard someone say and he glanced to see Devin. "I'm assuming you went to talk to Lilly?"
"Yeah, we talked," Salem said. "Did Mr. Tanner send you to make sure I stayed away or something?"
"Basically," Devin admitted. "He's busy with something tonight, but he's free the rest of the week so he'll be here every night to make sure you're not here."
"Seems like a waste of effort, but whatever. He can do what he wants," Salem said. "Lilly and I agreed we wouldn't see each other anymore. Romantically or otherwise."
"I'll just say you two have cut ties," Devin said. "I guess I'd better get in there and talk to her."
"Peggy was talking to her when I left," Salem said. "I'd give her a little while at least."
"Did you have feelings for her?"
"Not love," Salem said. "I like her, but it's no more than that."
"I see," Devin appeared to find the answer irritating.
"Devin, if you love her then go after her," Salem said.
"I already did," Devin said. "She said she didn't feel that way about me. Now I'm just the asshole that's still fawning over her while she's entertaining the sailors."
"Hey, don't take this out on me," Salem said, holding up a hand defensively. "Besides, you're being unfair to Lilly."
Devin seemed to remain upset, but then he sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. "I guess you're right. Is it terrible that I'm wondering if she's upset enough about this that I'd have a chance of being the shoulder to cry on?"
"Oh, come on, Devin, you're better than that," Salem said and approached Devin. "Why don't you join me, Harry and Aaron one night somewhere fun? I know Aaron's got plenty of friends in the area that he could introduce you to."
"While I appreciate you trying to play matchmaker, I'll have to pass," Devin managed a smile. "I guess I'm still hoping deep down that she'd love me."
"I say you're still young and there isn't enough time in one's life to chase after the unattainable. Keep an open mind and an open heart. You'll be surprised where you could find love. You just need to be open to finding it."
"Thanks I guess," Devin said. "Oh well, I'll let Ron know you and Lilly won't be seeing each other anymore."
"I appreciate it," Salem said and patted Devin's shoulder. "And take what I said to heart, okay? Lilly's a sweet girl and she'll make someone a good wife someday, but if she's not willing to be your wife, find a woman that will. I promise, you'll be much happier that way."
"I will," Devin said and finally went into the bar while Salem started walking back to base. But he didn't go to base right away. Instead, he found another phone booth and called JJ at home to let him know everything was alright now.
"Can I admit something?" Salem asked after he'd relayed everything to JJ.
"What's that?" JJ asked.
"It was a lot easier than I thought it would be," Salem said. "Does that make me a bad person?"
"I don't think so," JJ said. "If you don't love her, you don't love her. That doesn't make you a bad person. Frankly, I'm proud of you for taking the high road. I know it's not the most noble road, but at least you won't have to worry about dealing with her dad anymore."
"I guess that's true," Salem said. "I know I told Devin not to put all his eggs in one basket, but who knows: maybe Lilly will change her mind and realize she loves Devin."
"People change as they get older, so you never know," JJ said. "Hell, look at me."
"You're still an asshole, so I don't know what you're talking about," Salem teased and the both of them started laughing.
"Takes one to know one, kid," JJ chuckled.
"You can shove that 'kid' shit. I'm a grown man."
"I'll let you believe that," JJ said.
"So how's Uncle Hailey doing? Speaking of beloved assholes."
"He's alright," JJ said. "He's still healthy if that's what you mean. Yon and Tae Woon are still in town, so Uncle Hailey's been having dinner with us."
"Did he agree to that?"
"He was kicking and screaming the whole time," JJ said, smiling a little. "He usually calms down once dinner's served. He actually likes Korean food I think. He'd never admit it, though. He did admit to loving the Ox Bone soup, though."
"It sounds good," Salem said. "Do Jae Sun and Mae Sun still jiggle the bowl when the broth cools?"
"Yes, and it's gross," JJ said. "Of course, we've been having it a lot lately. I've been getting bibimbap every night by contrast."
"Remind me what that is? That's fried rice, isn't it?"
"No, bibimbap is mixed rice. It's a bunch of side dishes put on top of rice with that…..shit…gochu…gochujang? I think that's what it's called. You mix it together and eat that way. Eun Mi's being sweet, though. She'll cook the rice with sesame oil at the bottom of the pot so there's some crunch at the bottom of the bowl."
"So long as you're eating," Salem said. "And here I thought Ox Bone soup was only for Jae Sun's Christmas Birthday."
JJ laughed, "Exceptions are made when the grandparents are in town."
"So how's Eun Mi feeling? Can she still walk?"
"She can walk," JJ protested, "she just needs extra hands on the floor to keep her steady. You try being a 4' 11" woman carrying an extra 30 lbs. right in front of you."
"You can just say she's top heavy."
"I value my life, thank you," JJ joked.
"Well, when that kid comes into the world, give them a hug and a kiss for me. And sing Eun Mi the Munchkin Song."
"You fucking do it," JJ said with a chuckle. "So mom told me you got a bunch of new tattoos. I don't mind telling you she's not too pleased with that."
"Yes, mom, I know," Salem joked and then went on to tell JJ about all the tattoos in question, particularly his pinup on his side that was still his favorite.
As JJ promised he would, he didn't tell anyone about what happened except, of course, the pack but that was inevitable. Natalie gripped about it but seeing as Salem had done the right thing, she didn't get too upset. At the end of July, Yon and Tae Woon returned to Korea and Eun Mi promised again to write to them as soon as the baby was born as well as send them pictures. Thankfully Salem didn't have any more encounters with Mr. Tanner, but he also never went to The Seagull's Nest again. He'd apologized to Harry and Aaron about it, but they insisted it wasn't a problem and that they could find another bar to frequent which they eventually did, though Salem made a point not to get involved with the dancers at the bar this time around.