Saga of The Diver: Volume One: Skeletons

Chapter One - The Meeting at The Rock

Come on, Crazy Jim, where the hell are you?

Paul peeled back the curtain and peered out of the window of his hotel room onto the corner of Highway 305 and High School Road. The surge of traffic from the 5:30 p.m. ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island had come and gone, but his blue eyes couldn’t see signs of Jim’s unmistakable forest-green Rubicon.

Don’t leave me hanging, buddy, I’ve got so much to tell you. Paul shook his limbs to tame his racing heart. He paced his room in random circles.

Then came the knock on the door.

It’s me, Jim said, feebly.

Paul smiled and his mood brightened as he unlocked the door: It’s about time! The sight in front of him erased his grin. What the fuck…

Jim sported a forearm-walking crutch on his left side. His lower lip had a long scabbed gash, his cheekbones were swollen, and he had stitches on his eyebrows. Jim’s Mediterranean olive skin and designer sunglasses only accentuated the damage.

Jim sighed. I fucked up, Paulie. I fucked up big-time.

Yeah, but … Christ! Is there a bear on the loose? Paul gestured to Jim’s bleeding nose.

Click, click, clack! Jim clomped into the room with slow steps and a noticeable limp. He wiped off his nose with a wad of tissues from his blazer pocket.

Well, look at you, daddy-o! Jim pointed at Paul’s blazer. That seminar really changed you. The outfit is phenomenal. Jim started laughing but grimaced and stopped short, with his hands on his ribs.

W-who did this to you?

Jim sighed, removing his sunglasses, revealing his bruised eyes.

Paul gasped. For Christ’s sake, Jim! What the hell is going on? Shouldn’t you file a police report? I mean, what the fuck, man?

Jim sat on the bed, refusing to meet Paul’s eyes. They turned me into the next reef attraction.

Paul shook his head. "Who, what? Who in the world— He sighed. Does Teagan know?"

Jim looked at Paul, cocking one eyebrow with a smirk.

No fucking way! Paul said. Teagan did this? But your wife is the sweetest woman in the world—

Until you double-cross her, Jim said. Her best friend did her part too.

Paul shook his head. Wait… what? His breathing was shallow. You mean Lynn? But I thought Teagan was meeting her in Cancun.

It’s a long story, Jim said. But that’s irrelevant. You asked me to meet you here, remember?

Paul sighed and nodded. I do, my friend. I’ve got so much to tell you. All the things you taught me finally make sense.

I knew the seminar would change your life, Jim said. Is Carrie mad that you didn’t go home directly?

"She just scoffed and said: ‘Whatever.’ Paul sighed. I fear for our future."

Well, why don’t you tell me? Jim smiled.

No, it’s not time to tell him, Paul thought. He knew Jim would not judge him but he didn’t know how to bring the subject. Not yet, Paul thought. I’ve been dying to tell you, buddy, but right now, I’m concerned for you. Are you okay?

Jim made a dismissive gesture. I’m okay.

Please tell me what happened, Paul said. Maybe I can help you. Are you in trouble?

Jim nodded and looked down. Yep, I fucked up. My wife and her best friend now hate me and I might have said more than I should have. I truly fucked up.

When did this happen?

When I returned from Cozumel, Jim said. When I arrived home, Teagan wasn’t there and… He went quiet again.

Is that how it all started?

Jim shook his head. Actually, this started long before I met you. He closed his eyes.

I guess I’ll be the listener, Paul thought, staying silent. Jim had gone from student, to friend, and now teacher, but none of those roles were exclusive, and they often blended. You may be a little twisted but you showed me the way.

Jim opened his eyes and looked at Paul. It seemed as if he was ready to speak, but instead he burst into tears. His entire body shook with sobs.

It’s okay, buddy, Paul said, placing his hand on Jim’s shoulder. Shit! I didn’t know you could cry! Up until this point, Paul had never seen Jim Costas—the powerful, wise, and wealthy businessman, leader of the pack and textbook alpha male—so consumed by emotion. It’s okay.

The hell it is! Jim said, trying to calm down. My marriage is officially fucked. He sighed and looked at Paul. And after you hear the story, our friendship may also be fucked.

Chapter Two - Fellowship Induction

Two years before The Meeting at The Rock

Three weeks before The Induction

Jim couldn’t stop kissing his wife. He picked her up and sat her on the kitchen counter, pressing his body between her legs. He kissed her neck, eager for her sweetness and sensual fragrance, ready to tear her clothes off.

Teagan giggled. Honey, you’re going to be late for your meeting! You don’t want to keep Dan waiting. He’s as punctual as you. Jim continued kissing her.

Come on, hon, Teagan said. You’re going to get neurotic if you run late.

It’ll be worth it! Jim kissed her. Nothing can stop me.

Teagan winked. Your folks called while you were in the shower.

Jim went cold and he sighed. "Well … that will do the trick. He rolled his eyes. This is just great! What did they want?"

Same ol’, Teagan said, laughing. Reminding us how sacrilegious our wedding was and that they’re praying for our souls every day. She hopped back to the floor.

Jim shook his head.

Teagan snickered. Your mom wanted to know when we’re giving her grandkids.

Oh … my … fucking … God! Jim slammed his hands on the counter. How many times do I have to tell her of the vasectomy? Why won’t she listen?

Teagan bit her lips. I’m sorry, hon. I didn’t mean to upset you.

Jim looked at her green eyes. She looked repented and shy. You’re so gorgeous, he thought. He burst in laughter. It’s just bullshit, babe. Not your fault at all. He kissed her and slapped her ass before continuing his way. We’ll make it up tonight.

- 2 -

Paul leaned down to hug his sons at the breakfast table. I’m heading out now, guys! I’ll read you a story if I return early enough.

You have a scuba class tonight? Carrie asked. His wife gave him a piercing look.

Yes, honey, Paul said, kissing her cheek. It felt cold. He caressed her ash-blonde hair, held in a ponytail. It’s for Dick Liljiquist. He’s paying good money for private lessons.

So he paid ahead?

Paul’s stomach dropped. Not really. It’s an honor sys—

Again? Carrie rolled her eyes. What if he late-cancels like the other moochers? When are you going to learn?

Paul lowered his head. Why do you always think the worst?

Because it’s always the same story! You don’t have the guts to ask for your money when those freeloaders blow you off! Can you blame me?

Carrie, honey … Paul sighed. Things happen and sometimes people cancel—

Really, Paul? Carrie slapped her thighs. Our sons are growing up. Who do you think foots the bills?

Paul looked at his sons. They ate silently, keeping their faces down. His chin trembled. I get paid, you know that.

Carrie shook her head. No, you don’t! Playing with water toys and getting a pittance from cheap bastards is not the same as getting paid.

Paul put his hands in front. Look! It’s getting late. Dick won’t cancel, okay? He feigned a smile. I’ll see you tonight.

Carrie gave him a piercing look again.

- 3 -

Jim drove his jeep on Alki Avenue SW, singing along to Breaking All The Rules by Ozzy Osbourne, on his way to Ballard. He was excited at the prospects of the new corporate offices for CostasTechCo—the technology company he founded—opening in two days in downtown Seattle. This was the last time he drove to meet an associate at a coworker space. He looked at sparkling Puget Sound and smiled. I can’t wait to start diving here!

Jim’s bliss was disrupted by a familiar sight. What the fuck? Jim slammed on his brakes. The blare of several horns jolted him and he waved apologetically.

No fucking way! He slowed down and pulled to the side, checking the passenger-side mirror for a look at the woman he thought he knew. I better turn around.

He made a right onto 61st Avenue SW. His heart raced. Is it you? The woman was almond-skinned with long dark curls. Jim shook his head. It can’t be! Jim grumbled when construction at the intersection with SW Stevens Street stopped him. Come on, hurry the fuck up! He tapped his fingers on the steering wheel, waiting for the man with the stop sign to let him through.

He turned into SW Stevens Street. Fucking … really? He cursed at the sketchy traffic, forcing him to stop or slow down. Fuck it! he said, plowing his way through the narrow street, blasting the horn at every car that threated to stop him yet again.

Jim didn’t hear the other drivers cursing at him. His mind was immersed in thoughts of Lynn Teal. How the fuck did you find us?

He made a tire screeching turn at 62nd Avenue SW. Calm down, we’re almost there, one more turn. He took deep breaths. He heard them laughing. Not now, quiet! he commanded them.

Traffic slowed down at the approach of Alki Avenue SW. Jim kept taking deep breaths. He looked around at the intersection, more intent on finding the woman than paying attention to the traffic. He had been free of Lynn all this time. You can’t be back!

- 4 -

The Mall of Orange, CA

Three years before The Meeting at The Rock

I know it’s you, Lynn—shades or not! Jim said, talking to the woman crouched on the other side of the hedges. He shook his head. What the hell are you doing here?

What a coincidence! Lynn slurred, standing up with dubious balance. She removed her sunglasses and steamed them with her breath. I had the same question in mind! Aren’t you supposed to be in Florida? She wiped off her shades in her revealing outfit.

Jim contemplated her unblemished almond skin, glistening long curls, and voluptuous lips. Her blood-shot, wild eyes didn’t affect her beauty. So yummy, yet so wacko. You’re wasted again! He took her by the shoulders. And you’re following me again! Why?

Lynn tensed her jaw. Who was the skank?

One of my associates—how’s that any of your business?

Your associates dress like whores and kiss you on the lips? Chummy boss you are!

"You and Teagan kiss on the lips! And you kiss me on the lips! What’s your point?"

I know that you cheat on Teagan—and that you fuck your interns!

Jim gave her a piercing stare: Prove it!

Lynn returned the stare with fury. Look me in the eyes and tell me I’m full of shit!

Jim burst into laughter. Have you seen your eyes, you junkie? I’ll look you in the eyes but I’ll laugh my ass off. His look turned serious. Why won’t you leave me alone?

Teagan is my soulmate—she’s more mine than yours! Lynn said, putting her sunglasses back on. I’m only protecting her.

Jim smirked. Ahhhh! Now I get it! He laughed and caressed her shoulders. The studly Carl DeSantis dumps Lynn Teal, Burbank’s prize pussy, for Pam Galloway—a skanky bartender with a rap sheet. Jim kept laughing. I get it! You’re still aggro and taking it on me.

Lynn’s jaw trembled. Fuck you, Jim! She sniffled. You’re a pathetic cheater. She took his hands and caressed them. Then again, I can’t blame you. She looked at him over the rim of her sunglasses. Teagan is sweet and caring—but she’s no match for you. She approached Jim and pressed her sensual breasts on him. You know I won’t say no.

Jim laughed and shook his head. "Wow! You are high!"

Lynn let go and backed off. But I’m not blind! She smirked. What would Teagan say if she found out you’re here?

Jim tensed his jaw. Let’s ask her, he said, retrieving his cellphone. Babe? Yes, I just finished meeting Marissa. I’ll be heading to the airport in a couple of hours. He winked.

Lynn slapped her forehead. She started walking away but Jim grabbed her arm.

And you won’t believe who I ran into! He pulled Lynn closer. I’m sure she’d love to say hello! He put the phone in her hand.

Lynn mouthed Fuck you at Jim as she put the phone on her ear: Hi, baby! Lynn sighed. Don’t be mad at me, I wasn’t— She shook her hand and hopped in place: I’m not slurring, just tired. She removed her shades. No, baby, I’m not high— Lynn rolled her eyes. Just running some errands—I’ll see you tonight. Bye! She hung up and returned the phone.

What the fuck do you want with Teagan tonight? Jim said, grabbing her wrists. Stop involving her in your bullshit! You’re going to destroy her career!

Lynn tried to shake him loose. "Let me go, pendejo! I’ll scream! I swear!"

Jim smirked. Go ahead!

Fuck you, Jim! I swear I’m—

A car horn interrupted them. A man in a low-rise convertible pointed his chin at them. You a’aight, Lynn? he asked, waving his ring-decked hand.

Lynn ceased her struggle. Yeah, I’m all right, she said, putting her shades on. Just saying goodbye to a good friend.

She hugged Jim and approached his ear: It’s not over, Loverboy. You’re guilty as sin—and I’ll prove it. She kissed his lips and looked at him over the rim of her sunglasses. Sooner or later you’re going to fuck up—and I’ll be there, watching you fall apart. She winked.

Jim smirked. You should spend that energy fixing your life. Look who you’re hanging out with. He pinched her cheek. You’re damaged goods.

Lynn blew a kiss and got into the convertible. I’ll be seeing you! She flipped him off.

Jim shook his head. I won’t let you destroy our lives.

- 5 -

Jim looked around. The woman, whoever she was, was gone. His phone reminded him of his meeting in half an hour.

Fuck! Jim sighed. Whatever!

He took a deep breath and drove away. The ghost of Lynn Teal continued haunting him.

- 6 -

Paul felt stiff and sluggish at the end of his workday but forced himself to make it to the gym. Ugh, what a shitty day! He set his gym bag in his locker. He was ready to close it when his cellphone rang. It was Dick Liljiquist.

I have a last-minute meeting. Don’t wait for me, Dick said. Things got a little crazy.

Paul’s stomach dropped. He pressed his cellphone with his clammy hand. That’s all good, Dick, but you know my cancellation policy.

Will you cut me slack if I reschedule for this weekend?

Paul swallowed the knot in his throat. How am I going to tell Carrie? I wish, but it’s time that I lose and—

Thank you, Paul! I knew you’d understand! Dick said. Cove Two, seven a.m.?

Paul sighed. Uh, sure … but if you could pay ahead—

I’ll bring you a check when we meet.

Paul’s heart raced. Uh, make sure to include the late cancellation—

Dick laughed. Paulie, you’re such a jokester! I’ll see you on Saturday. He hung up.

Paul looked at his phone. What in the world just happened here? He thought of Carrie reprimanding him and his heart pounded.

Dick, you fucking asshole! Paul threw his phone on top of his gym bag and slammed his locker shut. Oh, Dick, how you live up to your name!

- 7 -

Dan kept talking but Jim wasn’t listening—he clutched his phone and checked it constantly. He had called Teagan on his way to Ballard, asking her if she’d like to go out to dinner and dancing. But his true purpose was to find out whether Lynn had contacted her. Teagan didn’t pick up and he had left a voicemail.

Is everything all right, Jim? Dan asked when Jim looked at his phone again.

Jim sighed. My apologies, Dan. Had this been the other way around, I would’ve fired you. Jim turned his phone off. Forgive me, nothing out of my control.

Dan held his hands in front. It’s okay, Jim. Shit happens and it can take our attention.

But we can always choose where we focus, Jim said, putting his phone away. Thank you for being upfront. You have no idea how much I appreciate honest feedback. He slapped Dan’s shoulder.

Dan smiled. I have the deepest respect and gratitude for all you taught me. Every leader should be like you. He looked at Jim. Shall I go over the details again?

Jim nodded. Please do.

Dan went over the details of the project, reviewing procedures and seeking confirmation as to how much freedom he had to make modifications. Jim gave Dan his full attention and tips to optimize his work. He instructed Dan to call his assistant for his travel arrangements.

Jim sighed relief at the conclusion of the meeting. Work is always good medicine. He turned his phone on. His heart raced when it signaled a text message from Teagan.

- 8 -

Paul headed onto the elliptical machine. The first few strides reminded him of the stiffness on his knees and ankles. His temperature increased and the discomfort from his joints disappeared. It was his routine. He would warm up on the cardio equipment before heading to the weight room. It was his way of removing the stress of the day.

Paul thought about his job. He never imagined that his degree in social studies would take him to a hospice center. The pay and benefits were good, but he disliked having to screen people as if they were applying for access to an exclusive resort. Today he had spoken with a man diagnosed with cancer. Paul thought of the frail man checking in, looking relaxed and bearing a grin, as if comfortable with his fate. How could he smile? The man had just turned thirty-five but was given a month to live after being diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer. It made Paul tired and depressed.

Paul’s supervisors thought he had a gift for patience and compassion, and assigned him difficult cases. But today he needed the escape of scuba diving, which he taught as a sideline.

Paul sighed. He didn’t know how to make Carrie understand that teaching diving was more than a job. That introducing others to what he thought was the best place in the world made his existence complete, and gave him the sanity to deal with his work and his family. What happened to you, baby? You used to be so much fun.

- 9 -

You must face this! Jim told himself. He stared at the phone, hesitating to check the message. The longer you wait, the worse you make it. He took a deep breath and unlocked the phone.

You’re such a dumbass! He started laughing when he read Teagan’s message: Sorry I missed your call, hon. My graphs designer called and I had to meet her. Dinner and dancing sounds lovely.

Jim took a deep sigh as he texted Teagan. If Lynn were back, Teagan would’ve said something. He closed his eyes, still feeling jittery. Fucking paranoia! I need to work this shit out of my system. He opened the web browser in his phone, looking for the closest gym.

- 10 -

Paul had been working out for barely fifteen minutes. How can I be tired already? He moved from station to station without paying attention. He was immersed in his world of worry when a voice snapped him out of his trance.

Do you mind if I work in with you? a man asked.

Paul had never seen him. The man was tall with dark hair, olive skin, and a sincere smile. Paul realized he had occupied the bench for what seemed an eternity. Not at all! Paul got up, blushing. By all means, please!

Are you done then?

Paul looked at the man’s broad shoulders and rippling musculature. Are you a male model? Paul sucked his abdomen in. I have a couple more sets. I can come back later.

You don’t have to. We can work together, the man said. I’ll have no choice but to work hard if you’re waiting for your turn.

Paul nodded with a smile. Sounds like what I need right now, I’m in! He extended his hand. The name is Paul. Paul Schultz.

The man shook Paul’s hand. Jim Costas, great meeting you. Are you ready?

Paul nodded. I’ll go first then. Jim positioned on the bench.

He means business! Paul watched Jim’s focus. He was used to absentminded crowds ambulating with lethargic movements. But Jim pushed on every rep, grunting to break through the pain, stopping only when he couldn’t continue. No wonder he looks so good. Jim’s energy was contagious and rubbed off on him. Jim wiped off the bench and thanked Paul for sharing.

Paul gestured him to wait. Do you mind if I join you the rest of the workout?

Jim smiled. Sounds great! What are your goals for today? I’m working on a split upper-body push, lower-body pull. Is that okay with you?

Uh, sure! Paul said, nodding. Whatever that means.

For the next thirty minutes, they took turns combining familiar and novel exercises. When they finished, Paul’s body quivered with energy. His limbs felt the rush that comes from conquering a challenge, and he smiled.

Holy shit, you kicked my ass! Paul laughed, dripping sweat.

Ditto! Jim slapped Paul’s shoulder. You’re a great workout buddy.

Thanks! Paul said, trying to catch his breath. Do you always train like this?

Pretty much. I belong to a CrossFit gym. Jim wiped off his face with his towel. But I had a weird day and I really needed to vent. Jim looked calm and he smiled.

Paul smiled. Glad I wasn’t the only one. Dick Liljiquist was but a funny memory.

- 11 -

Is that your bag? Jim asked, pointing at Paul’s duffel in the locker room. He grinned. Are you a diver, then? How great is that?

Well, yes, I am. Are you also a diver?

Not yet, but I’ll be one soon. Do you know any instructors?

Ahem! Paul raised his hand, smiling.

Jim laughed. No way! Talk about coincidence. Do you have a shop?

No, I’m an independent instructor but I have access to good facilities.

Jim’s eyes brightened. Independent, uh? Do you have a card?

Paul handed him one from one of the bag pockets. Are you new in Ballard? I haven’t seen you before.

I came for a meeting with one of my associates, Jim said. My wife and I live in West Seattle. We moved from Marina Del Rey a few months back.

What got you into diving?

Jim smiled. My wife got me the resort course and two private guided dives when we got married in Mexico. Now I can’t get it out of my head.

Now, that’s a good wife! Paul said, smiling. What’s her name?

Teagan.

That’s a beautiful name! How’s she liking the Emerald City?

Oh, it’s been great for her writing career! Jim said, beaming. She’s a food writer and has a lot more readers and workshops since we moved to Seattle.

She must have made a lot of new friends.

Paul saw Jim curl his lips and turn his eyes away. Did I say something inappropriate? Seattle is foodie heaven, perfect for her, Paul said. Now, what were we talking about?

Ah, yes! Jim’s eyes brightened. Me becoming a diver.

Paul looked at Jim with one eyebrow raised. You know what you’re about to do, right?

Jim stopped smiling. Is there a problem?

Not really, Paul said, shrugging, as long as you know that crack cocaine would be cheaper and less addicting than diving.

They burst into laughter and Jim slapped Paul’s shoulder. Sounds like my kind of thing. I’ll be in touch.

- 12 -

Huh! That was fast! Paul said, checking Jim’s text message: Can we start next week?

Many people took his card, but return calls or emails were rare. Jim had texted only two days after their meeting at the gym. It was the first time a prospective student contacted him without moping about costs.

Paul suspected an alpha male like Jim would learn fast, maybe faster than most of his students, and in doing so, overestimate his skills and confidence. That wasn’t necessarily a good thing in a novice diver. You have to learn to respect the water first, Paul replied in his text back to Jim to arrange their initial meeting. Respect the water and the water will love you in return.

- 13 -

Two weeks before The Induction

Paul rang Jim’s doorbell, whistling his admiration for the beautiful West Seattle house.

You must be Paul, a fair-skinned, green-eyed beauty said as she opened the door. Her wavy chestnut-reddish hair framed her bright smile.

Paul smiled. And you must be Teagan. I heard so much about you.

Ditto! Teagan said, giving him a warm hug. It’s so nice to finally meet you. Jim won’t stop talking about you.

Teagan invited him inside the bright living room while she called Jim. Paul was absorbed by the cathedral ceilings, designer furniture, elegant fireplace, and ample windows and skylights. You don’t live in a nice house on Alki Avenue on chump change, he thought.

Jim is at his man cave and he’ll meet you there, Teagan said, pointing to the upstairs, interrupting Paul’s trance.

Paul laughed. His man cave?

Teagan lowered her eyes. His studio. He disappears there for hours or days when he’s working on his projects. She looked at Paul and sighed. You’re privileged. He rarely lets anyone in his studio. Her last words made her cheeks blush and her lips tremble. She rushed to a nearby table, grabbed her keys, and forced a smile.

I’m sorry I can’t stay. I have a meeting with my publisher. She tried to disguise her breaking voice. You guys have fun.

Paul didn’t get a chance to reply and had only raised his hand to wave goodbye when he spotted Jim signaling him to come up the stairs.

- 14 -

Here, all done! Jim said, handing Paul his homework as he arrived to the studio.

Now you’re just showing off. Paul laughed, taking the two sheets with equations on gas consumption, pressure conversions, and surface intervals. His eyes diverted to Jim’s studio, covered in white boards with flowcharts, schematics, and strange terms. He whistled. I thought an office this organized only existed in the military.

It’s one of the keys to productivity, Jim said, smiling. A cluttered work area means a cluttered mind. This arrangement works best for me.

Paul nodded. He was getting to know the driven, fiercely independent, almost maniacal founder of CostasTechCo. Paul looked at the sheets Jim had handed him. Not a single mistake.

Come on, what’s next? said the restless Jim. When do we hit the water?

Finish your lectures, then we can have fun in the pool.

Jim rolled his eyes. Okaaay! But it’s not like I’ve never been to the water. Would you consider my dives in Mexico?

Paul shook his head no as he sat in front of Jim. Apples and oranges. Northwest diving is a different animal.

Jim laughed. Fiiine! But I’ll show you once we hit the pool. I’m going to kick ass.

I know you’ll rock the pool, Jim. Paul said, pointing to the page he wanted Jim to open in the manual. Paul smiled. Puget Sound will clean up that attitude.

- 15 -

One week before The Induction

Table for two, then? the hostess asked.

Yes, please. Paul nodded. My friend will be joining me soon.

He followed the hostess to a table by the window and looked at his watch. Jim’s punctuality was remarkable. He’ll be here in five minutes.

The normally busy café on First Avenue only had a few patrons. Paul spotted Jim at the intersection, waiting for the light to change. He’s so different from the other wealthy guys. Most of Paul’s wealthy clients were difficult to schedule and rarely spent time at home. When they showed up for their classes, they did so overwhelmed with anxiety, slaves to the high stress that substantiated their paychecks.

Jim was different. He spent a good chunk of time in the city but he did so in circumstances of his choosing. Jim had a control of time and schedule that made Paul twinge with jealousy. If I were loaded, I’d play with my time too.

Today, Jim had agreed to meet with him to grab a bite and arrange his pool training, the final step before the written test and the open-water dives. The two men greeted each other and took their seat. I’m sure you have a tight schedule, Paul said, retrieving his appointment book. What works best, after hours or weekends?

Jim shrugged. "You tell me. What works best for you? He flagged one of the servers. I want you happy and relaxed when we meet. You pick the dates and I’ll fit them. My assistant will rearrange the rest of my agenda."

Are you sure? Paul asked. He was used to being the last priority, a capricious whim that could be easily postponed.

While they chatted over their Americanos and crab-melt sandwiches, Paul paid close attention when Jim spoke of the things that should never be measured by price. He spoke with high energy, occasionally distracted by the sights of the street, only to return to the topic as if nothing happened. Like a squirrel on cocaine. Paul smiled.

Learning means a lot to me, Jim said, as they headed out. Making sure you’re a happy teacher is the highest return for my investment.

Paul listened to Jim as they walked south on First Avenue. Jim spoke nuggets of wisdom in the subjects of business, life, and the freedom of the entrepreneur. I need to pick his brain about the business world. Paul’s train of thought was interrupted by the sight of a homeless man approaching them.

Sir, please, a little help? the scraggly man said, advancing with slow steps.

His clothes looked tattered and filthy. He walked dragging his feet, his gait thwarted by his non-matching mud-encrusted shoes with missing shoelaces. Why not! Paul thought, reaching for his wallet.

Jim grabbed his hand. What the hell are you doing? He turned to the beggar with a commanding stare. Don’t even think about it! Fuck off!

The man stopped. But, sir, the indigent man insisted. I’m hungry and—

Bullshit! I’m not buying it, get lost!

Cheap bastard! the beggar said, The Lord is watching!

Well, tell him to fucking strike me down—right now! Jim approached the homeless man with a defiant gesture.

You’ll see! You will see! the homeless man said, turning away.

I only see a lazy piece of shit!

But he’s not cheap! Paul thought of the substantial money Jim had paid in advance to ensure his instruction. What the hell! Paul sighed. Oh well, he ain’t Mother Teresa.

Jim’s nostrils flared. Can you believe this piece of shit? He sighed and burst in laughter. I’ll see you in two days at the pool, then? He extended his hand, smiling as if nothing had happened.

Paul smiled. Yes, I’ll see you in two days. He reciprocated the handshake. You’re one intense and interesting fella.

- 16 -

Three days before The Induction

Northwest diving is gorgeous, Paul told Jim as they entered the shallow end of the pool, but don’t expect the warmth or visibility of the Riviera Maya.

Look, Paul, Jim said, sighing as he put on his fins in the water. I appreciate your concern. I know you mean well but I get it. I’m a grownup.

I’m just looking after your best interest, friend, Paul said, leading Jim to the deep end of the pool. Many of my previous clients didn’t listen and had skewed expectations. You can imagine their disappointment.

Jim laughed. How could they have skewed expectations? There are plenty of books and websites to back up your warnings. Didn’t these people do their research?

My guess would be not, Paul said, laughing, testing his regulator. Trust your training. Once you get past the initial transition, you’ll have fun.

Jim smiled with a glint in his eyes. Well, there’s only one way to experience that transition, am I right? He fine-tuned his mask and reached for his regulator.

Yes, and you’ll do well. You’re an excellent student. Paul put the regulator in his mouth and gave Jim the thumbs-down for immersion.

Thank you, Paul, he said. I’m curious to see what brings so many divers to the coves. He put his regulator on and signaled Paul he was ready for the last immersion of his pool training. The hiss of air exiting the buoyancy compensators and the gurgle of the regulators breaking the surface put an end to their conversation.

- 17 -

The day of The Induction

I shouldn’t be this anxious, Jim thought as he suited up for his first-ever Puget Sound dive. The stiff layers of the seven-millimeter suit made donning a task more demanding than expected. He laughed at the thought of donning a straitjacket. Nothing more befitting of Crazy Jim.

He sought the cooling redemption of the outdoor shower at the pier next to Cove Two. The outside temperature neared sixty degrees and Jim overheated in the thick neoprene layers. He had yet to don his hood and gloves but he was already uncomfortable. Am I making a mistake? The cool shower delivered relief.

He thought of his