Chapter Eleven
It had been a particularly warm, miserable, and humid summer. Saibara said it was indicative of a very active hurricane season. Gray had worked hard in the forge that morning, beads of sweat gliding off the tip of his nose and into the raging fires below. As Saibara stoked it, a belch of flames came up, just singing the bangs dangling between Gray's eyes. The young apprentice was sore and tired when his grandfather finally granted him leave for lunch. Gray stumbled out from the forge, turning his hat backwards, as the sickening smell of burnt hair followed him. While he rolled his sleeves, he thought back on the meager breakfast of toast and orange juice he had had that morning at the inn. Ann had been behind the bar, gracefully writing on the chalkboard in neat cursive what the lunch special was that day. And Gray remembered it had something to do with artichokes and liver. He shuddered and shook his head, deciding to go see what Kai had gotten up to in the kitchen instead.
It was Kai's third year of owning the Snack Shack and he was finally getting a complete handle on importing fresh ingredients to the island. Kai was all about freshness and was very critical of any meat products he ordered. Luckily, on one of the neighboring Goddess Isle's, he was in touch with a farmer who sent him fresh, blue ribbon prized vegetables and fruits. Because of the lack of fresh meat in the area, the Snack Shack was currently more on a vegetarian road, but every evening, Kai was searching through index cards, newspapers, and listening for word of mouth to make the Snack Shack a well rounded establishment.
When Gray pushed through the door, he was surprised to see the little seaside bungalow seemingly empty. The sturgeon fish clock ticked loudly on the wall as Gray took a few steps in and paused. Nothing stirred. It was unlike Kai to leave the bar unattended. Sitting on the counter, however, were slices of fresh baked bread with a homemade hummus dip. That was all the invite the apprentice needed as he rounded the bar to wash his hands. Gray paused abruptly, though, when he discovered Kai sitting on the ground, sipping a beer, and reading a book.
"There you are," Gray said, startling the chef. He stepped over Kai's legs and began washing up in the basin. "You didn't hear me come in?"
"No, sorry," Kai scrambled up, placing his open book on the bar. His eyes were still glued to it as Gray tore himself a paper towel and dried up. Gray found a seat on a bar stool and ripped the fluffy bread apart, eager for his first scoop of hummus. "Hey, what would you think if I got a chicken?"
Gray furrowed his brow as he chowed down on his meal. "What?"
"A chicken," Kai repeated, looking up now. "There's so much you can do with fresh eggs."
"Well," Gray said between chews, already taking another heaping scoop from the bowl of hummus. "It sounds like a good idea but… where the hell are you going to keep it? And what're you gonna do when you leave? Have it live on the boat with you?"
"Those are all great questions," Kai started to straighten up but paused, scanning the pages again. "This book doesn't really answer all of that. Their diets are pretty basic, they like sunlight… Just imagine, I build her a nest on my boat. She could be my world famous traveling chicken that has a hand in making egg tarts that everyone in the world wants a piece of."
Gray bobbed his head. "Sounds a little… ambitious."
Kai sighed and spun towards the fridge, serving Gray a beer. "Come on, wouldn't it be cool if we got a chicken?"
"We?" Gray echoed incredulously. "Not a single feather on that chicken will be mine. And do not bring it back to the room, Cliff will have a heart attack."
"Oh, I wouldn't do that," Kai smirked. Gray could only arch his eyebrows, tilting his chin forward. Kai then let out a big laugh, scooping the book into his arms. "Okay, maybe just once to see what everyone would say."
Kai then immediately drew his attention back to the text, his eyes glued to every word. Gray watched him for a moment before he went back to his lunch. It was just another ambitious idea, Gray decided. Kai had so many since coming into owning his restaurant. It was his baby, as he had proclaimed. Kai flipped through a few more pages before he turned towards the bar, turning his optimistic brown eyes up to Gray.
"Hey. Rick has chickens, right? We should just stop by and take a look!"
"Oh, I don't know," Gray sat up straight now. "Rick's kind of… picky."
"I'm a paying customer, it's fine," Kai waved his hand dismissively, slapping it against his book. "Besides, I don't have to deal with just him. He's got that sister, Petrona… or, Petunia?"
"Popuri," Gray said with a mouthful of bread. "I still don't know, Kai. Rick is like the Chicken Protective Services."
This made Kai snort as he slammed the book shut and rounded the bar, cracking open a fresh beer as his flip flops bounded against the creaky floorboards. "That's a good one, I'll have to remember that. Come on, let's go. I at least wanna go look at them."
Gray cast one more glance at his lunch before he snagged a piece of bread, following Kai out the door to humid summer day. Kai seemed so at ease despite Gray's warnings and walked with confidence. Unbothered as the sand fell from his sandals, he stepped into Rose Plaza, casting a glance at the three older gossipy women sitting close together on a bench in the corner. Sasha, Manna, and Anna all cast a wary glance in the beach bum's direction. He tipped his beer in salutations towards them, sending Manna into a furious whisper towards her friends. As the two boys rounded the corner, Gray ripped his bread apart, mulling over what was about to transpire.
"I wonder what color chicken I should get," Kai tapped his finger against his sweaty bottle, tilting his head back and forth. "White and brown is so cliche." His smile then got wide. "I should get a red head. That way when we're sailing the world, I won't miss you as much."
"Glad all it takes is a chicken," Gray replied dryly, stuffing another piece of lunch in his mouth. "I'm telling you, dude, don't get too excited. Rick doesn't hand chickens out willy-nilly."
"Like I said, I don't have to work with him," Kai shrugged. "Popuri can sell me the chicken."
"Nothing I say is going to change your mind, huh?"
"Nope," Kai steamed straight ahead, making a beeline for the approaching chicken farm. Kai carelessly kicked across the gravel as he went to the fence, leaning over to gawk at the group of chickens clucking and flitting about. "Damn, dude! These things are huge, come look at 'em, Gray!" The blacksmith cast a glance across the path at his grandfather's forge before joining Kai in his staring. "Wow, they're so cute and energetic! Which one looks like a world traveler to you? Look at that black one, I bet she lays huge eggs."
"What makes you say that?" Gray furrowed his brow and tugged at the bill of his cap.
"I got an eye for these things."
"You read one book and now you're an expert?"
"Oh, look at the way that one puffs up," Kai pointed excitedly. "She looks fierce. I like her."
"Can I help you?" They both looked over their shoulders with arched eyebrows to see Rick standing behind him. He was carrying an empty bucket with remnants of bird seed stuck to the sides. His white sweatband was dusty, pushing against his shaggy blond hair. His thin rimmed glasses were smudged from his work. Rick narrowed his eyes for a moment, craning his neck towards Kai. "You can't drink here."
Kai turned to face him coolly now, smiling all the while. "What if I said I brought it for you? A hard worker like yourself should get to enjoy a cold one."
"I don't drink," Rick replied flatly.
"Right," slowly, Kai set the beer on the ground and then clapped his hands together. "Well, listen, I'm in the market for a chicken to help make the ingredients in my restaurant even fresher."
Rick nearly dropped his bucket as he recoiled back from Kai's words. "You're not going to eat it, are you?!" He seemed absolutely mortified by the idea.
"Whoa, no, no, no, no!" Kai held his hands up now, shaking his head furiously. Gray sighed and went back to looking at the chickens. It was already going swimmingly. "I won't be boiling any chickens, I swear. See, I'm interested in the eggs. I have a lot of recipes that use them but it costs so much to ship fresh ones from the neighboring islands. You understand, right?"
Rick put his bucket down and crossed his arms over his chest, coming to stand at the fence beside Kai and look at his brood. He seemed to be contemplating Kai's proposition. His eyes constantly shifted to look at the young man exuding a carefree nature. Rick tilted his lips back and forth. "You swear there will be no butchering? Even in desperate situations?"
"Scouts honor, Rick," Kai nodded. "In fact, you'll be the first person I bring my egg tart to."
"My mom really likes deviled eggs," Rick replied.
"Alright, deal, I'll give her my first batch."
"Okay, well, you can head inside. My mom will get the documents together for you and do your consultation," Rick explained as he picked his bucket back up.
"Consultation?" Kai's eyebrows knitted together.
Rick stopped abruptly. "Well, yeah!" Kai nearly flinched at the declaration. "These are living creatures and they mean a great deal to us. We have to make sure they're not going to some neglectful life. We've seen it too many times. Some guy just reads a book and suddenly he's fit to have chickens." Rick snorted and Gray almost joined in before earning a glare from Kai. "Yeah, not on our watch."
"Alright, alright," Kai held in a sigh as he turned toward the white and blue farmhouse tucked in the corner of the property. "Thanks for your help…" he muttered under his breath as his sandals flopped against the dirt. Together, Gray and Kai climbed the steps and entered into a spacious living space. Despite it being a muggy, hot day, the fireplace was roaring alive with flames. The room smelled sweetly of flowers but was suffocatingly warm. Gray immediately zipped his coveralls part way down as they shut the door behind them. There was a small, make-shift counter set up immediately to the right of the entrance where an older woman with voluminous pink hair sat. Her brow was somewhat sweaty but still she wore a knitted sweater and cardigan. Behind her there was an archway leading to a modest kitchen where the boys could see a tea kettle on the stove, along with a counter top stacked with cans of soups and various prescription pill bottles.
"Hello, welcome," the woman greeted warmly. She pressed a dainty handkerchief to her chin, as if she were suppressing a cough. She cleared her throat. "How can I help you boys today?"
"Yes, hi," Kai came to the counter. "I'm buying a chicken. Rick sent me inside for a consultation."
She smiled maternally, reaching behind her to grab a manilla folder of blank forms. "Oh, how wonderful," she said as she began arranging the paperwork. She paused for a moment, though, pressing a hand to her collarbone as a dry cough wracked her. "My apologies," she paced a few steps away, pressing her handkerchief over her mouth as her shoulders bobbed with each cough. After a beat, it subsided and she cleared her raw throat. It immediately started back up, however, and she shook her head. "I will be right back. Please make yourself at home," she said as she grabbed the railing with her thin hand and went up the stairs.
Kai and Gray were left alone in the room. Gray sat at the couch despite the intense heat wafting off the fireplace. Kai took the time to wander about, looking at the decorations on the walls. On a dark chestnut table by the fireplace, Kai picked up a photo. Popuri and Rick were young, sitting on the fence of the farm. Behind them, their mother, looking much healthier with vibrantly clear skin, had her arms around her children.
"She seems pretty ill," Kai said, glancing over his shoulder.
"Yeah," Gray stretched against the back of the couch. "She's been like that for a while."
Kai stared at the grandfather clock for a few moments before he came to lean against the arm of the couch. He sighed as the waiting waned on and on. He took the time to count the amount of soup cans he could see from the kitchen. Thirty-two. They were all different brands, varying between strictly clear broth, hearty with vegetables, and essence of meats. The prescription pill bottles were plenty, some knocked over, others stuffed full of pills, with some being completely empty. They all had the same name on them: Lillia Deleon. Gray glanced to the clock. His lunch break would be over in nine minutes. He was contemplating trekking back to the Snack Shack to wipe the bowl of hummus dry. Kai went to the counter and leaned over curiously, looking at the three documents she had set out. Basic information, a paper on acknowledgment of care, and page of signatures agreeing to payment. It all seemed pretty straightforward. Kai whisked a pen up and began filling in his information.
"Well, I think this counts as a consultation," Kai said as he wrote. He turned his head in Gray's direction. "Let me just fill this out and then we can go pick-" Kai paused abruptly, however, his mouth left hanging open. Gray glanced over the couch before he followed Kai's line of sight to see what he was staring at.
Standing at the top of the stairs was freshly seventeen year old Popuri. She shared the pink voluminous hair with her mother that she had separated into two buns with green bows fixed to them. She was wearing a pink sundress with thin straps, accented with a dark red bow on the sweetheart neckline. She seemed quite surprised to see the two downstairs. Popuri glanced over her shoulder before a flicker of recognition crossed through her jam colored eyes. She came to the base of the steps now, folding her hands together in front of her.
"I'm sorry, have you been helped?"
"Uh, yeah…" Kai seemed to stumble over his words, making Gray cock an eyebrow up. "I mean, sort of. I'm waiting on a consultation. I was, uh, just getting a head start on the paperwork."
"Oh, yes," Popuri nodded, a look of disappointment crossing her face. "I'm sorry, my mother is not well. I'll help you with that consultation if you'd like to just have a seat on the couch over there."
"That'd be great, thank you," Kai sheepishly rubbed the nape of his neck. He flashed Gray a thumbs up as he plopped down on the couch. After she gathered all her material, Popuri sat down beside Kai, handing him an informational packet. Her hands were so small and dainty, her watermelon pink nail polish gleaming in the light of the fireplace. Gray could only warily watch from the other side of the coffee table as Kai resituated himself with his reading material to sit a bit closer to Popuri. Gray almost wanted to roll his eyes. He knew that look in his friend's eyes. Popuri smiled now as she cleared her throat to begin.
"Now, I just want to start with the fact that we're here for you every step of the way," Popuri told him, their faces only inches apart. Kai's eyes never left her vibrant face as she spoke. He noticed the faint belt of freckles across the bridge of her nose and admired the one lone bouncy curl that clawed across her forehead. "If you ever have questions or troubles, never hesitate to come to us for advice or help. We want to make sure our chickens lives, and yours, too, are egg-cellent." She chuckled lightly and Kai was quick to jump in on sharing the laugh. "Our chickens' diets on our farm are primarily grains that we find have the best nutritional value. We sell bags of it here. Chickens also really love vegetables, like carrots, green beans, and lettuce."
"Oh, I can assure you they will be very well fed," Kai told her. "I'm a chef."
"Yes, that reminds me," Popuri handed him another paper and their fingers just glanced at each other. She paused for a moment and Kai could only hope she felt some electricity. "This form is for you to sign. It's just agreeing we are a no-kill farm and we expect the same of you."
"Yup," Kai scribbled his signature across the line. "Rick already covered that base."
"Your initials right here, please," Popuri pointed her slender finger at another paper. "This is your agreement to do your due diligence for the health and longevity of your chicken." Kai signed without hesitating. "And here, too. This is saying you have good intentions for your chicken and proper shelter." He signed again. "And finally, right here. This is acknowledging that you know your rights of owning our chickens can be terminated at any time on our suspicion of improper care."
"Easy peasy," Kai said, flashing his signature grin at her as he finished his signature.
"Alright," Popuri shuffled some papers around. Gray didn't know if it was the fire or Kai causing her cheeks to turn pink. "Let me just make sure everything is in order."
"You're really knowledgeable," Kai told her as she began stapling the packet together. She paused, lifting her eyebrows as she looked at him. "I know you've probably grown up seeing it all done before, but I gotta say, Popuri, you sure do make it easy. I think I'm well on my way to being a great chicken owner."
She smiled somewhat coyly as she laid the papers in her lap. "Thank you. I don't often get to do the consultations so that means a lot."
"They should be letting you do majority of them!" Gray could almost inwardly groan as Popuri snickered politely, turning her head in a bashful way. "How easy was that, Gray?"
"Super easy," Gray deadpanned back, glancing to see his lunch break had ended. He began to stand up to make his way back to the forge when the front door opened and a rather frustrated and annoyed Rick walked in. Some strands of straw and hay were stuck to his t-shirt as he firmly shut the door behind him. His eyes searched the room but it seemed like whatever he had to say dissipated the moment he saw Popuri and Kai on the couch.
"What is going on?" Rick demanded, stepping forward adamantly.
"Momma needed a break," Popuri said. "I was giving Kai his consultation."
"No, no!" Rick stomped across the room, immediately coming between them. Popuri and Kai stood up, backpedaling as Rick put his hands on his hips, standing in front of his little sister. He gave Kai a small shove to get some more space. The young man windmilled his arms as he felt the push against his chest.
"Hey, what gives!?" Kai glared at him now.
"Rick, what are you doing?!" Popuri dropped the packet on the coffee table, shocked by her brother's sudden outburst. "That's no way to treat a customer. You tell Kai you're sorry right now!"
"Customer?" Rick echoed, his eyes like daggers on Kai. He pointed sharply at him. "He's not a customer. He's a liar and a pervert."
"Watch who you're calling pervert," Kai slapped his hand away. "I'm no liar, either."
"I bet you're already boiling and salting the water!" Rick's voice rose unsteadily, almost cracking. He was beginning to seethe, but still, Kai only stood there and watched him get worked up. "I went over to your shack to give you a courtesy nest for the chicken. But there's absolutely nowhere down there to even keep a chicken! You've done zero prepping! No fence, no shelter, no turf! I'm not selling you your next rotisserie chicken!"
"For the last damn time, I'm not going to cook the chicken," Kai squeezed the bridge of his nose as he let out a long sigh. "I just want the freaking eggs! There's some work to be done, sure, but I have every intention of treating the chicken right."
"I'm not selling you a chicken," Rick said, shoving Kai again. The young man staggered for just a moment before he drew himself completely up, towering two or three inches over Rick. "Get out!"
"You have no right to refuse me business."
"Like hell I can! You were consuming an alcoholic beverage on our property," Rick shot back. "And that's illegal. So get out of here."
Gray saw Kai's hands curled into fists and he reached forward, grabbing his friend's arm. "Come on, Kai, let's just go."
"You're unbelievable," Kai said, his voice low and husky with tension. Rick snagged the paperwork up, promptly tearing it in half.
…
It was long after midnight when Kai found himself sitting on the pier next to the Snack Shack. His bare feet just barely skimmed the surface of the calm waves that languidly shifted back and forth. He licked his lips after he took a drink of beer, letting out a long sigh as he closed his book. What a crappy day, he thought to himself as he tossed the book behind him and sat back on his hands to look at the sky. His next plan for advancement in his restaurant was utterly dashed. He thought about all the master's he had apprenticed under, recalling their stories of struggles with finding the vision of their restaurants. At the moment, it didn't feel like any of Kai's ideas were ever going to manifest. The world renowned egg tarts, the spicy egg crepes, egg salads, and delicious english egg muffins were all thrown right out the window. It felt so unfair. Rick wouldn't even give him a chance. What would he have to do to prove he wasn't a chicken murderer? There was nowhere for him to build a chicken coop and he was still light years away from being able to buy the abandoned farm. Kai had ideas, though, and ways to improvise simulation for the chicken as if it had never left Rick's care. His face was sour as he took another drink of his beer.
"Kai?"
He nearly spit his beer everywhere from being startled. He sat up and looked over his shoulder to see Popuri standing on the pier. Her fluffy hair was loose and puffy around her shoulders. She was wearing white and pink plaid pajama pants, a baggy sweater that said Waffle Island encasing her slender body. She was hugging herself, looking at him in a quiet timid nature.
"Popuri…!" Kai cleared his throat, setting his bottle down. "Um, uh, hey! What are you doing here? It's pretty late."
"I know, I'm sorry," her pink slippers were muted on the pier as she came closer to him. "I just couldn't sleep. I feel awful about what happened today, Kai. Rick was so unfair to you."
"It's fine," Kai answered coolly. "You didn't have to come all the way down here on behalf of your brother."
"No, it's important that I did," Popuri came and sat down crisscrossed beside Kai on the pier. The milky moonlight bathed her creamy complexion and her jam colored eyes sparkled. Kai could see immense guilt clouding her vision as she nervously ran her hands together. "When Rick loses his temper, it's just terrible. He says things without realizing how damaging they are. It was uncalled for to call you a pervert."
"Eh, not the worst I've been called," Kai said in an attempt to lighten the mood. Popuri didn't seem eased by this. Kai shook his head and smiled at her. "You know, I was surprised by how angry he could get. Didn't think he had it in him. Hard to believe someone as sweet as you is related to such a brute like that."
Popuri smiled weakly for a fleeting moment before she lowered her eyes to her fidgeting fingers. "His anger gets worse and worse every year that my father is away."
"Where is he?" Kai furrowed his brow together.
Popuri was quiet for a few beats as she looked out at the ocean. It was as if she was trying to procure her father on the horizon, waving his flag of victory, bringing with him souvenirs from around the world, and the love of seven missed years. Popuri pressed her lips together tightly.
"My mother has a very rare disease," she finally said, still not looking to Kai. "There's only so much doctor's can do about it. She mostly just takes pills to ease the pain and try to control the symptoms. The only known cure is the pollen from a very rare flower. And that's what he's after."
"I'm sorry," Kai bobbed his head slowly. "Does he at least write?"
"Not really," Popuri's voice was flat. "He doesn't have the time anymore."
"That's rough, Popuri," Kai looked at her, surprise filling her face. "That's a lot to take on, but you do it with a lot of grace."
Her eyes grew glossy and she blinked rapidly, turning her face towards the baggy sleeve of her sweater. "I'm sorry," she clucked, her voice taut.
"You have nothing to be sorry for," Kai told her, pressing his hand to her shoulder. Tenderly, his thumb rubbed against her sweater. "I imagine Rick has never said anything like that to you before."
"It's not just that," Popuri looked back towards Kai. Her little doe eyes were sopping wet, tear stains streaking down her cheeks. "None of us know how much longer she has left. And every day that he's gone, he's missing out on moments he will never get back. This whole stupid trip could all be for nothing and he can't get it through his thick skull. I guess Rick's just like him… bullheaded… it's his way or the highway."
"It's hard talking sense into people who have gotten desperate. It sounds like your dad really loves your mom and that's what's blinding him," Kai replied. "It's not an excuse, though. I could understand how frustrating and scary that can be."
Her wet eyelashes fluttered. Surprisingly, she smiled. "I don't know what Rick was on about. You're so nice, Kai. You actually listen."
Kai laughed and shook his head. "He's just watching out for his sister. I can relate."
Popuri sniffled, her grin never waning. "You have a sister, too?"
"Try five."
She gasped at this revelation, giggling all the while. "Sounds like Rick could learn a thing or two from you. He says I'm a handful. I'm sure you've got some crazy stories."
"You? A handful? Not even close," Kai told her confidently. "My sister went on a hunger strike so my parents would give in and let her get her pilot's license one time. I snuck her leftovers from dinner every night so she wouldn't lose her will to fight for it. She never ate any of it, she'd slide it right back under the door."
"Did she get it?"
"Nah, she decided while taking pictures of planes one evening that she wanted to be a photographer," Kai smiled crookedly.
Popuri laughed and shook her head before she sighed, watching the rippling ocean. "I know Rick wants what's best for me, as much I hate admitting it. It's just so frustrating the way he's trying to keep me a little girl. It's as if he's trying to preserve everything for when my father comes back."
"Don't let him get you down," Kai sat back on his hands. "Your consultation today was great. Very helpful."
"Really?" Popuri's eyes lit up. "I love when I get the chance to do it. As lame as it sounds, talking about chickens is kind of like an escape, if only for a little while."
"Then keep doing what you love."
Popuri now turned to fully face the ocean, dangling her legs off the pier. She was much too short to reach the water. She folded her hands into her lap, taking solace in the sound of the ocean washing past her. Even though it had been such a warm day, the night was cool and somewhat refreshing. The silence settling between Kai and Popuri was comforting. Popuri couldn't remember the last time she was able to simply turn the voice in her head off and be in the moment.
"It's so nice here at this time," Popuri finally spoke up. "I could see why you enjoy it."
"I grew up on the beach," Kai said, lowering his beer from his lips. "But nothing beats the dead of night. Everything is quiet, everyone is asleep. Makes you feel like the only person in the world, but not in a bad way." He set the bottle on the pier. "It's also prime time for constellations. Look there, just to the right of the moon. That's the tail of The Lobster. In some corners of the world, the Lobster is like a god to people. The most sacred thing you could ever pull up from the ocean. Oh, and down there, near the horizon, it's Gorion's sword, the lost hero of Ancient Times. They say they'll never find him, but his sword lies at the highest crest of the largest mountain in the world." Popuri scooted a bit closer to him, tilting her head to follow his line of sight. Kai caught the smell of something sweet, like lilac or maybe even… potpourri. "Up there, that's the Seahorse of Gallentine, the goddess of the ocean. It is said she led the army herself, mounted upon her proud seahorse. I think she called him Darcy."
"Wow…" Popuri said, looking into the sky with a renewed affinity. She turned her gaze to Kai, their faces only inches apart. "It sounds like you've been everywhere and heard the most interesting stories."
"Well, not everywhere," Kai smiled, aware his breath reeked of alcohol. Popuri didn't seem to mind, though, and she didn't even flinch. "But I've seen my fair share."
"I've never left the Goddess Isles," Popuri looked back out at the horizon. She didn't seem sad at the moment, but more so curious. "The furthest I've ever been is just beyond the Forget-Me-Not Coast. Which is… where I got my sweater." She tugged at it, realizing it wasn't very impressive. "But I've always wanted to go across the Channel, to The City. I'd love to go beyond that. What's past The City?"
"Oh, more cities, smaller towns, and even smaller villages," Kai replied, sitting back on his hands, tracing a map in his mind of everywhere he had gone. "Beyond The City is the rest of the world."
"Sounds divine…" Popuri said quietly, her lips barely moving. After a moment, she looked at Kai, raising her eyebrows. "Do you think I could ever travel the world?"
"Well, I think everyone deserves the chance."
"Would you ever… take me with you?" Popuri asked, her eyes wide and full of wonder. Kai did a double take, meeting her gaze. "Wherever you go for cooking, do you think I could find something fulfilling for myself? Of course, I could find steady work to broaden my horizon of ranching. But I can also sew and knit! I crochet bracelets in my spare time and I used to help my mother dye fabrics to make vests and skirts. I could do it, don't you think? Set off into the horizon and find myself!" She seemed to be getting more turned on to the idea with each word she spoke. "I could find my true calling. I could be really good at something but never know because I'm stuck here on this island."
"It's just something you really have to think about," Kai said gently, not wanting to snuff her excitement. "I'd love to show you the world, Popuri. But with an endeavor like this, there's no room for hesitation."
Popuri reached forward, grabbing Kai's hand and drawing it towards her. "If I go on the way I am, you might as well write 'world's biggest hesitator' on my gravestone." She paused, cocking her head slightly to the side. "Do you… ever stop missing home?"
Kai licked his lips and shook his head. "No, to be honest."
"But you get used to it?"
"Yeah, I guess that's how I'd describe it."
Popuri's fingers tenderly ran against Kai's skin. "You're so amazing, Kai. I think I could be amazing, too."
"I think you could be, too, Popuri," Kai said quietly, his voice husky.
Just a beat passed before Popuri closed the space between them, planting her lips against his with an almost sense of urgency. She grasped at his shirt, pulling her against him. At first, Kai was surprised. But it didn't take long for him to return the passion, pressing to her body and bringing his hands up to feel those silky curls falling all around her. Kai couldn't remember the last time he had received a kiss that seemed so powerful and spoke volumes in its silent nature. It was as if everything Popuri felt, thought, and had suppressed deep into her soul was coming through her lips, soaking the inside of Kai is the essence of everything that made the beautiful young woman up. She was multi-faceted, she was complicated, she was sure of herself. And how badly did Kai want that flower to open up and face the sun.
When their lips parted, Popuri tilted her forehead against his chin, his shirt still knotted between her fingers. Kai kept his arms wrapped around her, feeling the faint beat of her heart. "From the moment I saw you, Kai, I felt safe with you. I felt warm and tingly. And I just want to give in to it."
"You can do it, Popuri," Kai whispered into her curls. "You can do anything you want."
…
Despite going to bed a quarter after two in the morning, Kai found himself rousing from bed shortly after the sun broke over Mother Hill. He felt well rested, even. Kai rolled out of bed, whistling a jaunty tune even though his roommates were still in bed. He found himself a navy t-shirt and tan cargo shorts, stumbling into them in the dark room. As he mashed a cap over his head, he tore the curtains back to welcome the new day. Mary's family was coming out of their house for their early morning hike. Mayor Thomas was wearing an embarrassing outdated tracksuit, weights around his ankles, as he did a festive fast walk down the cobblestone streets. Kai unlatched the window and threw them open to greet the cool morning air and hear the birds chirping.
From Gray's bed, he groaned and turned away from the window, pulling his pillow over his head. "Kai, come on, it's barely six in the morning…"
Cliff sat up, groggily rubbing his eyes. His dark brown hair was unruly, his white tank top ruffled on his chest. He let out a wide yawn, gazing to where Kai was with his big grin, sunlight streaming over his shoulders. Cliff sighed and pulled himself from the bed, nearly tripping over his tangled sheets. He muttered under his breath as he went into the bathroom, closing the door behind him.
"Aw, get up, Gray!" Kai said, opening the second window. "It's such a beautiful morning!"
Gray lifted his head, his red hair jutting in all kinds of directions. "And since when do you wake up before ten?"
"It's a new, wonderful day, that's all!" Kai told him. "I wanted to embrace it."
Gray's head fell back against his pillow as he stared at Kai with a tired, perplexed look. "Are you drunk?"
Kai leapt up onto the table, planting his feet on a stool. "Come on, man, have you ever been so happy and excited you just didn't want to sleep?"
"Yeah, maybe after the last day of school in, I don't know, kindergarten?"
"You're such a spoil sport," Kai said, his smile never waning. "Get out of bed, seize the day! Carpe diem!"
"Whatever," Gray's face was in his pillow again.
Cliff came out from the bathroom with freshly combed hair pulled back into a ponytail. He reached for his vest that was disregarded atop the dresser and began shrugging into it, casting a glance at Kai who seemed eager to make conversation. As Cliff arranged the fur on the collar of his vest, he turned to his roommate. The young man couldn't think of anything to say, so he pretended he was looking for his boots as he brushed past Kai. Gray was finally peeling himself out of bed, trudging towards the bathroom like a turtle. He flicked the light on and looked at himself in the mirror, running his hand along his jaw. Soon the water was running as he dampened a razor, smudging cream against his face. Cliff, still without saying a word, left the room just moments later. Kai decided to get a start on his day, too, and jauntily went down the stairs where Cliff was being served orange juice and an omelet by Ann. Kai slid in beside his roommate with his big grin as Cliff began drowning the eggs in ketchup.
"Can I get a coffee, Ann?" Kai asked, resting his elbows on the counter.
As Ann poured it, she cocked an eyebrow up at Kai's demeanor. "Well, someone is in a good mood this morning. That is… unless you didn't sleep off the liquor from last night." She placed the coffee in front of Kai, sliding down the cream and sugar in the next beat.
"It's just another wonderful day to be alive!" He exclaimed, pouring creamer into his mug. Ann crossed her arms over her chest. "You can't take for granted the days you wake up with your lungs full of air and the promise of new adventure."
"Whatever," Ann shrugged, opening the coffee maker to pour more grounds into it. Everyone's disregard was doing nothing to falter Kai's elevated moods as he drank his coffee and sighed in delight. Beside him, Cliff tapped his fork against the edge of his plate before shyly lifting his chin.
"Are you in love, Kai?"
"You know, Cliff, I think I might be," Kai replied, leaning cooly against the bar. Ann nearly dropped the bag of coffee as she spun around, her braided hair beating wildly against her neck.
"In love?!" Ann echoed, slamming the coffee grounds down. "With who?!"
"Oh, wouldn't you like to know?"
Gray's boots beat down the stairs now as he appeared, zipping his coveralls up. He began rolling the sleeves as he hopped into the barstool next to Kai, completely unaware of Ann's flabbergasted face and Cliff's staring. "Ann, I just want some toast and-"
"Gray, Kai's in love!" Ann shouted. The apprentice paused, furrowing his brow as he looked up from his sleeves now.
"Surely it's indigestion," Gray told him.
"Ann, go get the man his toast," Kai waved his hands towards the young woman. She put her hands on her hips, staring intently at the beach bum whose smile still hadn't wavered in the least. Finally, she let out a sigh, and turned sharply on the heels of her boots, pushing through the swivel door to the kitchen. "It's not indigestion, it's love. I know it when I feel it."
"Who could you possibly be in love with?" Gray scoffed, shaking his head, pressing his elbows to the bar.
Kai cast a fleeting glance towards the kitchen door and at the window to make sure Ann wasn't trying to eavesdrop. He leaned in close to Gray. "Popuri, dude."
"Are you serious?" Gray placed a hand against his forehead. "You've met her one time. No wonder Rick threw you out."
"I was with her last night," Kai replied.
"Okay, so you drank yourself into a hallucination."
"No, really," he insisted. "I went to the pier last night and Popuri came to find me. We talked a little and then… she kissed me. We just clicked."
"You do know she's, like, sixteen?" Gray cocked a bold brow up.
"So what?" Kai shrugged. "I won't be twenty until the end of the year."
"Whatever…" Gray sighed. He certainly was not a morning person and he knew better than to get into a debate with Kai over his love life. In the next moment, Ann came out from the kitchen with a plate of toast, along with scrambled eggs and a cup of orange juice, which she set in front of Gray. She looked up and down the bar of men but no one said a word. She gave Kai a look, one that meant 'I have my eyes on you' before she turned around and began stacking clean mugs up against the backsplash.
Kai downed the rest of his coffee and let out a refreshing breath as he stood. "Well, I'm off to prep today's lunch special. Don't try to compete, Ann!" The red headed girl didn't even get a chance for a rebuttal before Kai was out the door. The sky was still pink and orange as the day came alive. The streets weren't busy at all. Kai decided to take the long way so he'd pass by the chicken farm.
He walked with a perk in his step. He couldn't remember the last time he had clicked so well with someone. Her jam colored eyes, her rosy cheeks, and the way she smiled made butterflies flutter in his stomach. Her voice was so smooth and harmonious, he felt like he could listen to her talk for hours on end. Popuri was something special, it was a shame she was so overlooked on the little island she had grown up on. Kai felt like Popuri had so much potential, but her wings were being constantly clipped. As he went around the corner, he saw the sun rising above Mother Hill. The chicken farm was coming up on his right now and he saw at the back of the property that Rick was busy spearing hay and moving it into the hutches. Kai found himself smiling, however, as he approached the fence, watching as Popuri was lining buckets up to be filled with water. Her bushy hair fell around her wiry shoulders. She was wearing a light pink tank top, nearly the color of her hair, with green shorts. Her skin was vibrant and clear in the early morning light. As she went to grab the next bucket, she paused when she saw the beaming Kai leaning against the fence, watching her.
"Good morning," Popuri called out, crossing the farm towards him. "You're up early."
"Ah, it's a beautiful day," Kai said, casting a glance at the sky. "Didn't wanna miss it."
"Hopefully the humidity stays away," Popuri folded her hands behind her back, swinging her shoulders back and forth. "That's why we get up early, though, to get all the chores done."
"Did you get enough sleep?"
"Honestly, no," she laughed. "But it was worth it."
"I agree," Kai leaned in a little closer.
"Can I help you?" Rick appeared behind his little sister now, pitchfork in hand and his lips pursed. "Are you back again to try and con yourself a chicken?"
"Well," Kai straightened up. "Not as much con as I'd like to say obtain. But it looks like your mind's made up. I'm just here to say hi to the only person who took me seriously." Popuri smiled bashfully at him, feeling light on her feet.
"Popuri has actual work to do, unlike you, so it'd be best if you were on your way to wherever you go," Rick told him. Popuri's smile instantly evaporated as her brother's words came over her shoulder. Rick then turned and climbed back over the nearby fence to continue his chores.
"Man, he's bitter," Kai shook his head. "I won't keep you."
"Oh, before you go," Popuri took another step towards him. Kai paused, arching his eyebrows. "I was wondering if I could come by today… for lunch?"
Kai smiled and crossed his arms over his chest, making Popuri's cheeks turn pink. "Well, lucky for you, I was on my way to prepare a very special lunch. I hope you like corn."
Popuri folded her hands together excitedly. "Great, I'll come by around eleven!"
"It's a date."
…
The rest of the summer was fun, ambitious, and an adventure for Kai and Popuri. He enjoyed her company and her wit. For Popuri, Kai was something warm, almost protective, from the daily turmoil she endured at home. They stayed up late together, they drank together, they kissed each other, and eventually, they had found peace in bed together. Rick couldn't stand Kai's presence in the meager moments he came by to pick Popuri up for walks that lead to picnics and he was vocal about it. Lillia, however, kept the peace and was supportive of Popuri's newfound friendship. For Popuri, Kai was her first love, her first kiss, and the person she was willing to give herself to. He brought her a homemade cupcake with a candle in it for her birthday. He learned her favorite dishes and made her smoothies from her favorite fruits. Popuri brought him baskets of eggs and he kept good on his promise to Rick, sending devilled eggs home for their mother. Kai was able to make his spicy egg crepes and his quiches. As summer waned on, Popuri asked about his upcoming contracts and he'd show her on his world map the places he would sail and described the restaurants he would work in. They learned so much about each other. Forever, Kai would remember Popuri was allergic to shellfish and Popuri kept in mind that Kai's favorite color was purple. The sixteen year old girl felt at peace with the world and thought Kai was The One. She gushed to her mother about Kai when Rick was not around. She was enamored by his worldly perspective, his tenderness, and his need to never take things too seriously. He listened to her rants from her stressful days and she hung onto every word he spoke as he talked about his travels. Everything seemed so perfect, so right, but as July became August, Popuri found herself on edge, frightened to be away from Kai for even a single moment.
The morning of his departure, Kai had been quite busy stocking his boat, checking and rechecking his supplies, and gassing up. The Snack Shack was quiet as he turned off the light in the pantry and closed the door for another year. The beer was dwindling down in the fridge, so he popped one open as he double checked the gas was off on the stoves. He let out a sigh and paced a few steps. The end of summer was always bittersweet. Mineral Town was, in a way, his home now. It was always the place he was most excited to return to. But his endeavor to be the best chef and also the need for money to fund his dreams in the Snack Shack led him to all corners of the world. His mind wandered towards Popuri. What a summer it had been indeed. In the next moment, the door flew open and Kai straightened up, looking over the bar.
As if he had manifested her, Popuri came through the door with tears streaming down her rosy cheeks. Kai set his beer down and quickly came out from the kitchen. He met her halfway in the middle of the restaurant, wrapping his arms around her slender body.
"Hey, hey…" His voice was gentle as he combed through her curls. "Shh, shh… Popuri, what's wrong?"
She shook against him, grasping his overshirt tightly in her fingers as she gazed up at him. "I want to go with you. I have to, Kai. I can't be without you."
Tenderly, Kai ran his thumb along her cheek, whisking the warm tears away. "Popuri, we talked about this. I'll be back before you know it. You have family here, you have a job. This is your place."
"No," Popuri pushed against his sturdy body. "I've been thinking about this for a while. I am nothing here. Just some sick woman's daughter, some bitter boy's sister, some chicken shepherd. I want to see the world with you. I want to find out who I really am, just like you."
"Pop…" Kai's voice was low and husky. "Your family isn't going to let you walk out on them."
"They let my father," her voice was pinched. "Don't I get a say in my life, too?"
Kai sighed and licked his lips, glancing around the Snack Shack before meeting her watery eyes again. "Are you certain?"
"More than anything."
"What about your brother?"
"Come for me in an hour," Popuri told him. "I'll be packed and ready." She got up on her tiptoes and passionately pressed her lips to his. She then turned and left, tear stained, but determined. Kai sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. He just knew this wouldn't go off without a hitch.
The next hour was antagonizing. Kai sat at the bar, drinking the remainder of the beers in the fridge and eying the clock. He didn't know what he would say, but all he could anticipate was Rick blowing his top. Freshly seventeen years old and ready to see the world, Popuri wasn't much unlike Kai when he was younger setting off to the horizon. Part of Kai wanted to hop on his boat and leave but he would sigh when that thought crossed his mind. He loved Popuri and he couldn't hurt her like that. He popped a breath mint as he finally left the Snack Shack and began his tense walk to the poultry farm. The field was empty when he arrived except for all the chicken clucking and pecking about. His boots were heavy to the steps as he went towards the front porch. Kai closed his eyes and took a deep breath before he pushed the door open, a bell jingling to announce his presence.
Frail Lillia was sitting on the couch beside the ever present fire, reading a book. She looked up with a smile when she heard someone coming in. Rick came out from the side hallway, wearing a white and green gingham apron, a wooden spoon in hand. As soon as he saw Kai, he crossed his arms over his chest and clucked his tongue.
"Just won't take no for an answer, huh?" Rick's voice was rather cold. His mother was coming to her feet now, pressing a handkerchief against her sweaty brow.
"Rick, that is no way to talk to people," Lillia scolded. "Especially one of Popuri's friends."
"Friend?" Rick echoed with a scoff. "He's not Popuri's friend, mom. He also has no manners, barging in right before supper when I've already made myself very clear he cannot have one of our chickens."
Kai was silent for a few beats, shuffling his feet and looking around the room. "I'm here… to see Popuri."
"We're about to have supper, didn't you hear me?" Rick shook his head. "Come back tomorrow."
"Well, actually, you see, there won't be-"
"Momma, Rick…" Popuri appeared at the top of the staircase now. She had a purple and pink polka dot backpack over her shoulders and a bright yellow suitcase in her hand. She came down to the base, looking between them. Popuri seemed nervous and eager. "I thought it would be the right thing to do - to tell you - that I'm leaving with Kai on his boat this evening so I can see the world."
Lillia gripped the back of the couch, her eyes as large as saucers. "Popuri, what are you talking about?"
"I want to have an adventure of my own," Popuri replied, coming to stand near Kai. "Raising and selling chickens isn't my lifelong dream. There has to be something out there for me."
Rick slammed the spoon on the nearby desk, his eyebrows twitching. "So, what, you've been brainwashing my little sister?!"
"This was her idea," Kai said. "It's what she wants."
"No, absolutely not," Rick sneered. "My sister has always loved it here, she has always wanted to be close to our mother and me. Then you come along and delude her into thinking leaving is the right thing to do!"
"Rick, come on," Kai replied dryly. "You're talking about her as if she isn't standing right here."
"You son of a bitch!" The young man roared, tearing his apron off. He charged forward. "You good-for-nothing lazy bum, you leech!" Rick rammed into Kai, who was sent backwards through the doors. Together, they rolled down the porch step and flew into the dirt where a hazy cloud rose around them. The chickens began clucking excitedly at all the commotion. Popuri ran onto the front porch, her hands over her mouth, as she watched the two men wrangle back and forth.
"Stop it! Stop!" Popuri shouted, racing down the steps. Rick did his best to grab hold of Kai's neck, but Kai pulled himself up and reared his fist back, nailing Rick directly in the face. He heard the crack of his glasses. Kai didn't stop, though. He hit him again and blood was soon dribbling onto the dirt. Just as he brought his hand back once more, Popuri grabbed it. "Kai, stop!"
Kai was panting as he got to his feet, dusting his white t-shirt off. He walked a couple paces, his knuckles throbbing. He placed his hands on hips as he turned towards Rick who writhed in pain on the ground. "I don't get you, man. I've been nothing but nice to your family. I've been relenting every single time you've insulted me. I love Popuri and all you do is keep stuffing her into this little bubble you've made in your mind. What is your deal?"
Rick's eyes pierced him from behind his shattered right lens. Purple lines were already beginning to form beneath them as he came to his feet, carelessly letting his nose dribble. "You wouldn't know the difference between love and lust, even if they both hit you in the face. I saw how you kissed her, the way you put your hands all over her!"
"So, what, you were spying on us?" Kai held his arms out at his side, his blood hot beneath his skin.
"You defiled her, didn't you?"
"You're crazy, you know that?"
Rick marched towards him and Kai straightened up, having a good two or three inches on the young man. Rick's lips were cracked, his face dusty and bloody. "Did you have sex with my little sister?"
Kai stared intently at him, his lips drawn tightly together. "I don't think you want to know the answer to that," he whispered with venom in his voice.
Rick ground his teeth together, his whole body wracked with shakes. He wanted to strangle Kai so desperately. He let out a scream and turned, waving his arms at Popuri. "Go inside! You're not going anywhere with this pervert."
"Popuri, it's your decision to make," Kai took a step towards her but Rick roughly placed his hand to Kai's chest. "You can't let him dictate everything you do for the rest of your life."
Popuri looked so meek, her large eyes shimmering with tears. She looked between Rick and Kai. Her mouth was open, but it took a few beats before she managed to swallow roughly and speak. "Kai… you… you should go without me."
"What?!" Kai's voice was raspy. "Popuri, you gotta stand up to him, just like you always told me you wanted to. You can't let him win!"
Rick shoved Kai back who staggered a few steps. "Stop talking to her."
"Come on, Popuri, don't do this," Kai said despite Rick standing between them. "You want to see the world. You deserve this. Don't let this clown make you doubt yourself."
Popuri's wet eyelashes fluttered as she shook her head. "You should go. And I should stay."
"Why are you letting him do this to you!?" Kai shouted.
Slowly, the young girl came to stand beside her brother where she tenderly gripped his sore face. "Look what you did to him, Kai…"
Kai was stunned into silence. His bold brow was knitted together, his eyes intense. "Fine, that's your decision. You want to stay here. But you know what, Popuri? This, whatever we had between us, it's over. We can't come back from this. I can't be with someone who tells me one thing and does the complete opposite."
"Kai!" Popuri turned towards him, her eyes full of hurt. "No, please-"
"I'm out of here," Kai wouldn't hear it as he barrelled past her, steam practically coming out of his ears. He stomped down the stairs from Rose Plaza, his undershirt flying behind him. To his dismay, Gray was standing on the pier, looking around. "I'm leaving right now." Kai said, kneeling down to begin roughly unknotting the ropes.
"Dude, what happened? Why are you covered in dirt?" Gray asked.
Kai hurled one of the ropes onto the boat. "Rick and Popuri, that's why." Kai began on the next rope. "Good riddance, I say." He paused as he stood with the rope wound around his hand, his heart beating in his ears. "I'll see you next summer, dude. I just… I have to get out of here."
