The day before Carolyn’s birthday.
Allison had just finished lunch when her phone lit up with Carolyn’s name.
“Hey, Allie, can you come early tomorrow afternoon?”
Allison blinked. “Isn’t your birthday party in the evening?”
“It is, but the cruise sets sail in the afternoon. We’re spending two days at sea—just for fun.”
“Oh, nice! What time should I be there?”
“We’ll leave once everyone arrives, but I want to see you sooner. So come as early as you can, okay?”
“Sure thing.”
The next day, the weather couldn’t have been better—sunny and bright, with just the right amount of breeze.
Allison slipped into the blue halter dress she’d bought at the mall, dabbed on a little makeup, and clipped her hair up in a quick twist. She didn’t bother with a fancy hairstyle or heavy makeup. It was Carolyn’s day, after all—she didn’t want to outshine the birthday girl.
Joshua was already waiting for her, lounging on the couch with a relaxed smile. Allison packed a small suitcase with a change of clothes and her essentials, then let Joshua lead her out of the villa with his arm around her shoulders.
A black Cullinan was parked out front. Joshua’s assistant, John, was behind the wheel, ready to take them to the marina.
The sky was endless blue, the kind that instantly puts you in a good mood. The sea breeze was cool and salty, brushing away any traces of sleepiness. White sailboats and sleek yachts lined the docks, but one ship stood out—a huge, gleaming white cruise liner, elegant and grand like a palace floating on water.


Verify captcha to read the content
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk (Williams and Shawn)