Under the Mango Tree: 101 Tales (3)

ISLAND LIFE

Challenge No.49 - Happy 100.

Write a scene or story that includes the number 100.

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Grace was laid out on the yacht, feet crossed and arms outstretched in a replication of a crucifixion. She'd saved for years for this vacation and she was going to enjoy every moment of it. For now, that meant stretching out in the Caribbean sun on a one-hundred-meter yacht.

The joyride had been a short one, after all, she could only afford so much. What she could afford was a trip around the island of Saint Lucia. Starting with Gros Islet, French for Big Island, in the north the yacht had cruised down through the Atlantic Ocean, along the east coast, past the town of Dennery, named after a French invader Count d'Ennery, they turned around Vieux Fort, French for old fort, at the Southern tip up the calmer west coast past historic Soufriere, French for place of sulphur, ending up where they'd begun.

They were now anchored at the bay off Pigeon Island, so named because the British had spotted a pigeon or two on the island, now a peninsular. Stretched out on the deck, under a canopy, she closed her eyes, and the action served to amplify her senses. Every now and then a gentle wave would wash up with a bit too much energy and she'd get splashed, then she'd lick her lips and taste the salt. She smiled.

At one point someone pointed out, "DOLPHINS!"

Grace had popped up and watched the school pass by.

Lying on the deck she listened to silence. It was alive. Fish jumped and plopped back into the water. The laughter of the dolphins. The screech of birds and the accompanying splash as gulls dove into the water to emerge with a fish - lunch!

Her imagination reached out and she soared over the island savouring the kaleidoscope of greens. Saint Lucia was truly beautiful.

All things come to an end, and her birthday treat was over. The yacht pulled into Castries Harbour at the Pointe Seraphine side. There they were met by the authorities.

"Captain Bob?" The police officer asked. The man nodded. "What happened?"

"No idea. We were hired for a trip around the island. We had a good time. Spotted dolphins and whales. We even saw a stingray. We came with a chef and lunch was onboard which we all ate. She's an easy-going, beautiful lady. No problems. It's her birthday and a treat to herself. It was a pleasure to have her."

"She was alone?"

"Yes. So, we pampered her. She made it easy to do. I tell you she's a nice lady. I do mean lady." Captain Bob insisted. "And for this to happen. It's a real shame."

They stepped aside as the advance hearse passed by with the body.

"We didn't even notice until we started back. So, we called it in."

"Sad, but peaceful way to go. On her birthday you say? The Medical Examiner will tell the tale."

© 18 April 2022

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