Page 23 of Escape To Paradise
“Interesting line of work.”
Julian took his time sipping his wine. “I’m staying in Grenada for a while. I’d like to show you around the island in your downtime.”
“Thanks for the invitation. But I don’t know when my downtime is exactly. I’m new to the job.”
Julian fished for something from his pocket. It was his wallet, and he took out a business card. He handed it to me and casually said, “Text me, ring me, e-mail me. I would really enjoy taking you on a tour. You’ll love it.”
I took the card and thanked him. He rejoined his friends, and they left to go to the upper deck, where they played poker. I joined the girls in cleaning the table and then the galley. It was around 9 p.m. when things quieted down, and we had our late dinner. As usual, the captain led the prayer, and everyone joined in. We enjoyed a simple meal of baked fish, coleslaw, and brown rice. Kathleen prepared the meal, as usual. It was the crew’s choice to have a simple dinner, but I took a mental note that I would cook something fancier for them.
The following day, we arrived at Petite Martinique. The island was smaller and surrounded by turquoise waters. This time, the guests all wanted to explore. We packed them lunches for their island excursion. Paul took two trips with the smaller motorboat to take the guests, with Zofia accompanying them. Kathleen and I did some prep work for dinner, and then, we had lunch with the captain.
After lunch, Captain Youssef invited me to the bridge. His gray-blue eyes gleamed with pride as he showed me the controls and told me how he steers the yacht. It looked so modern, and his chair was very comfortable.
“Did you always want to sail?” I asked.
He thought about the question a bit, and then, he answered, “Being stuck in a small place, I had always dreamed of faraway lands. I didn’t particularly dream of becoming a sailor. I just dreamed of traveling the world.”
“Where’s your family, Captain?”
“They’re in London right now. My eldest son is a doctor, and my second daughter is a lawyer.” He smiled as he mentioned his children.
“I’m sure you’re proud.”
“I am. I really am. No father could ask for more.”
“Is that your family?” I pointed to a family picture that sat near the controls, beside a picture of a young man and a young girl. The young girl was most likely his daughter. The one that died.
“Yes. That’s when my son graduated from medicine.”
“You have a lovely family and your wife is very beautiful.”
“Thank you.”
“Is that your late daughter?”
The picture was of the younger Youssef holding his child. They were both smiling.
“Yes, that’s Fatima. It was taken a week before she died.” I could hear the pain in his voice.
“She was a pretty girl.”
“She was. She had my eyes.”
“Yes, I can see the resemblance. Your other two kids, I think they favored your wife,” I pointed out.
“Indeed.”
Captain Youssef changed the topic. “How are you liking your job?”
“I love it very much. It’s the best job I’ve ever had. It’s not stressful at all. I actually enjoy cooking for the guests.”
“I can tell. We’re lucky. We get to travel, and we get to enjoy life. But I still can’t wait to be home for my extended break.”
“So, who will take your place?”
“Another captain will take over for eight weeks. I’m sure you’ll like him as well. John’s a kind man. But I’ll be back in no time.”
“When will you have your vacation leave?” I asked.
