Stormy Waters Part two of our romantic serial

Part Two Cruise ship staff member Maddie is thrown together with her estranged husband – and the girl he had a fling with

Crying, Maddie fled along the ship’s passageway. How could she be so stupid! This afternoon she’d believed Todd’s claim that he and Suzanne were history. Her estranged husband was a cheat – and now a liar. “Maddie!” Todd called. Against the ship’s rules, she broke into a run. Turning the corner, she bumped into Alazar, the First Officer. “Hey! Where’s the fire?” he laughed. “Sorry, Officer Nuru.” “Please call me Alazar –” At that moment, Todd drew level. “Maddie – it’s not…” “Don’t bother. I’ll see you at the safety run-through. Alazar, have you eaten?” She gave him a dazzling smile.

“No. Would you care to join me? In the officer’s mess.”

Todd’s eyes burned into her as she walked off with Alazar. Only round the corner, feeling the First Officer’s arm snake around her, did she wonder if her plan to upset Todd might backfire. Maddie slid out of Alazar’s grasp. “On second thoughts, thanks for the invite but I’d better join my colleagues in the canteen.” “If you’re sure?” Alazar looked puzzled. She felt guilty. It was selfish to involve him in her petty attempt to unsettle Todd. This was their marriage; their problem. “Yes. Thank you, though, for asking.” He smiled and, pleased their fledging friendship was intact, she walked towards the canteen. She suddenly wondered if Todd and Suzanne were there. She didn’t want to see them, nor did she want Todd knowing she wasn’t dining with Alazar. She’d better go to the Port Excursion desk.

There were three blasts on the ships’ whistle followed by the Captain announcing, “Welcome aboard Princess Marina. I’m Captain Simon Northwood. Before the ship sails, everyone must attend the mandatory safety drill. Please go to the muster stations.”

She did as requested. Once the drill was over the Captain would set sail.

Sail Away was thrilling, especially for those who’d not cruised before. To watch the lines released as the ship pulled away from the dock was exciting.

She and Todd had watched Sail Away with his arms around her. A sudden pain shot through her. No doubt Todd and Suzanne were adopting their own ritual.

When Maddie reached the Port Excursion desk, her jaw dropped. On larger ships, there’d be a sweep of counter with at least four staff members. Behind the desk would be an office used to organise visits.

It was an important job, adding to the passengers’ enjoyment and extra revenue for RIC. But this reception area was the size of a kiosk. There was room for only two crew members. So much for keeping her distance from Todd!

Suddenly a deep voice asked, “Enjoyed your dinner?” She turned to face Todd. “Yes, Officer Nuru was very attentive.” Was it her imagination or did he look hurt? Briefly, she pitied him. Should she confess that she hadn’t dined with Alazar? Or should she challenge his lie about no longer being with Suzanne?

“The reception area’s tight but the office is like a cupboard,” he said. “Where will the team work?” “Team?” he frowned. “Um… we’re it. Princess Marina’s a small ship, Maddie. Crew numbers reflect that.”

Oh no. She groaned inwardly. She’d be working in this confined space with Todd for the next fortnight!

“Now – the first excursion is Gibraltar. You haven’t been to Gib, have you?”

“No, I can’t wait.” Her natural enthusiasm softened her tone.

“This evening we’ll give a presentation to passengers. Many have booked online but we’ve still places to fill.” “But I’ve not prepared anything.” “No problem. Check the itinerary and research the attractions on the web.”

Maddie logged on to the computer in the minuscule office. Although not as slick as she liked, she drafted a reasonable talk. Todd composed a Power Point so by the evening, they were good to go.

RIC was used to them as a team, Maddie thought, entering the conference suite. Soon she’d be working alone. Was her good reputation linked to Todd’s? On this trip she must prove her worth.

As the suite filled with passengers Todd set up the laptop as Maddie re-read her notes. Once all were seated, he stood up.

“Welcome aboard Princess Marina. I’m Todd Bowen and this is my lovely wife, Maddie,” he announced, smiling warmly.

She GLARED at him. How DARE he say that as if NOTHING had happened

As the passengers clapped, she glared at him. How dare he introduce her as if nothing had happened!

Yet as Todd made every attraction sound unmissable, she was impressed, as always, with his smooth delivery.

“And don’t forget, the cruise highlight’s an overnight stay in Venice.”

The audience cooed. She smiled at their enthusiasm, hoping that would translate into more bookings.

“Now,” Todd said, “I’ll hand over to Maddie who’ll tell you all about tomorrow’s trip.” The audience clapped as she stood. Smiling, she welcomed the passengers before detailing arrangements. “Excuse me,” an older American woman said, her gold bracelets jangling. “What time are we meeting?” “Ten o’clock.” Maddie smiled. “And your name is…?” “Nancy Goldstein.” “Is this your first cruise, Mrs Goldstein?” “Good Lord, no,” she drawled, patting at her blonde hair. “I’ve probably been on more cruises than you, dear.” The audience laughed warmly. “Perhaps.” Maddie grinned. “We’re using a local guide to see many sights…” As she listed them, Todd showed images of St Michael’s Cave, the Moorish Castle and the famous Barbary Apes. Once again Nancy Goldstein raised her hand. “Do we have to see all the sights?” For a moment, Maddie was floored. “Well… I suppose you could sit out one or two attractions but you’d struggle re-joining the group.”

“Oh, it’s OK. I just wondered if it was possible. I want to see everything.”

Lack of food and the long day full of unwelcome surprises was taking its toll on Maddie. Why was Nancy asking such inane questions? She tried resuming her talk but the American had thrown her. “Er… umm…” She faltered. Todd glanced at her. She recognised that look. He was growing impatient. Quickly she flicked through her notes and reminded the passengers what to take with them tomorrow. Yet again Nancy interrupted. “Can I take my camera?” Agitated, Maddie glanced at Todd. “Of course, Mrs Goldstein.” Todd smiled winningly. “How else will you take

all those selfies with me!” Even Nancy smiled. “Any problem, come to me or Maddie. That goes for everyone, naturally,” Todd said genially. “Although not all at once.”

Typically, he’d charmed them, not least Nancy Goldstein. Maddie was grateful. She’d been annoyed but daren’t upset passengers, especially as Nancy sounded like a regular; RIC’s favourite clientèle.

After a question and answer session, Todd ended the meeting, telling everyone they’d accept bookings there and then.

Once the room was empty, Maddie and Todd collected their papers and switched off the computer.

“All the places have been sold.” She smiled. “Thanks, Todd, for rescuing me. Mrs Goldstein never stops.” “No problem, Maddie.” “It went OK, didn’t it?” She smiled. “Well… it wasn’t your best talk.” She was stunned. “What?” “You let Mrs G rattle you. If I picked it up perhaps the passengers did, too.”

MESMERISED, she watched the DOLPHINS leap in perfect ARCHES

What! How dare he? “Todd, six hours ago I’d no idea I was boarding Princess Marina let alone sailing to Gib. Somehow I composed a talk but all you can do is criticise.” “I was trying to be constructive.” “I shouldn’t have expected praise. Don’t bother explaining. Suzanne might fall for your lies but I won’t again.” She left, ignoring him calling her back. Maddie wanted to go to her cabin but she was hungry. Luckily, the staff canteen was open twenty-four hours to accommodate the crew’s shifts.

She settled for sea bass salad and had just sat down when Todd appeared. “Maddie, I didn’t mean to offend you.” “I’m used to it, lately,” she shot at him. “Although your affair more than offended me, and so did lying about no longer being with Suzanne when you clearly are.” “But Maddie, I –” “Don’t bother explaining. Now if you don’t mind,” she interrupted, “I’m eating.” Todd frowned. “A second dinner?”

“I’m hungry.” She blushed, hoping he believed she’d eaten with Alazar. He reached for her hand. “I’m sorry, Maddie, I didn’t mean to upset you over the presentation. As for Suzanne, we need to talk –”

“We don’t.” Pointedly, she stared at his hand on hers. He released his hold.

“OK, now’s not the time. But when we’re on duty, let’s be professional.”

“Of course.” Keen to change the subject, she asked, “Do you like working the smaller ship?” “I think so. Makes a change.” “And the crew seem friendly.” “Officer Nuru certainly does.” She dipped her gaze, concentrating on her meal as her cheeks flushed.

“Look, could you email the Gib tour company with tomorrow’s final numbers and check the Venice arrangements.” “A bit early.” She speared a tomato. “Perhaps, but it’s the cruise highlight. Nothing must go wrong.”

“OK. I’ll do it when I get back to our … I mean, my cabin.”

“Thanks, Maddie. It’s great working with you again. We make a good team.”

As he stood to leave, she thought, No, we made agoodteam. A willowy redhead swept in. Suzanne. “Ah, Todd!” Seeing Maddie, her smile froze. “I was expecting you at the bar.” “You’d better go, Todd,” Maddie said. He sighed. “OK. Night, Maddie.” As she watched him leave, she put down her knife and fork – her appetite disappearing as quickly as sea mist.

The next morning Maddie awoke exhausted. She’d hardly slept, dreaming of Todd and Suzanne laughing as she limped through a presentation.

Even showering didn’t help. After grabbing coffee and toast in the canteen, she went to the Port Excursion desk. Todd was there looking impossibly handsome in crisp white shirt and trousers. “Morning, Maddie.” She barely muttered in return. He checked his watch. “Look, we’ve fifteen minutes before we need to assemble. I want to show you something.”

Reluctantly, she took his outstretched hand. He led her to the viewing deck. Once there, he said, “Look!” She squinted in the early morning sun. The Rock of Gibraltar rose out of the sea. She was stunned by its sheer height. “Wow – the Rock.” “No, over there.” She followed where he indicated. “Oh, Todd – dolphins!” Mesmerised, she watched as the dolphins jumped out of the sea in perfect arches. Yet Todd wasn’t looking at the creatures, but at her. She held his gaze. “Maddie, I…” Was he going to kiss her? “We’d better get back,” she said. “Yes – you’re right. We can’t be late.” “That was fantastic. I’ve never seen dolphins in their natural habitat.”

“I thought you’d like it. Now let’s have a fantastic day in Gibraltar.” “I feel like we’re on holiday.” “What? Can’t have my staff feeling like that. I’ll have to give you a mass of filing.”

“Urgh!” She groaned then turned away. It had felt like old times – now she had to face the reality of her and Todd’s separation all over again.

After introducing the passengers to Sergio, their driver, Todd and Maddie boarded the coach. “Is it safe?” Nancy Goldstein asked. “Of course, Mrs Goldstein. RIC wouldn’t put their passengers at risk. And more importantly, neither would I,” Todd said, charming their most awkward client.

“Will we see the famous Apes?” Lorna

Robinson asked Maddie. She and her husband were on honeymoon. They were youngest passengers and Maddie was keen to make them feel comfortable.

“Yes, we will,” she said, privately dreading it; monkeys frightened her. Todd glanced at her, understanding.

Sergio proved an excellent guide and the coach was air-conditioned but still Nancy Goldstein complained constantly. “Is the coach rocking too much?” “Does the driver know the way? “Will we get back to the ship on time?” Maddie was pleased when they stopped at the first attraction – Europa Point, shadowed by the impressive Rock.

“Look, it’s such a clear day you can see the coast of North Africa.” Todd pointed.

Maddie shielded her eyes. The view, the attraction, the Rock were amazing. So why couldn’t she take her eyes off Todd?

As Sergio led them through the Pillars of Hercules – the entrance to the nature reserve – Todd said, “Better ask if the tour company has organised the afternoon coach. Oh, and did you double- check the Venice arrangements?” “No, but I will.” “Please make that a priority, back on board. Venice is the tour highlight.” “Of course. Leave it to me.” Entering the Apes’ Den, a monkey scampered across her path. She flinched.

“Aren’t they cute?” exclaimed Ann Vickery, one of the single passengers, as her photo was taken with a monkey.

“Remember – do not feed them,” warned Sergio. “They friendly but still wild animal.” Maddie swallowed, glancing at Todd. “Are you OK?” he mouthed. She shook her head as several monkeys ran around her feet. Alarmed, she recoiled. Suddenly a particularly inquisitive monkey pulled at her handbag. She screamed, throwing it to the ground. In a flash, Todd was beside her, shooing the animal away as he retrieved her bag. “I’m sorry. Can I sit on the coach?” “Of course,” he said, wrapping his arm around her shoulder.

Instantly, she felt safe, melting in to him, her body remembering every inch of his as if they’d never been apart.

Signalling to Sergio, who unlocked the coach, Todd led her on board. “I’m sorry.” “It’s OK – I know you find them scary.” “I’m not too keen either,” Lorna said. “Can I sit this out, too?” “Of course,” Maddie said. From the coach they watched the tourists, including petite Nancy Goldstein, engage with the monkeys.

“Todd’s great, isn’t he?” Lorna said, smiling. “I hope Pete and I are always as happy as you two.” “But –” Maddie tried to interrupt. “Todd obviously loves the bones of you,” Lorna continued.

Maddie stopped and held that thought. Was Lorna right? Did Todd still love her? Was there any way back for them?

Eventually the passengers boarded the coach and Sergio drove them to the old town for lunch before returning to the Princess Marina.

“I go now. Siesta time,” Sergio said, leaving them waiting on the dock for the new guide escorting the afternoon group. Todd looked at his watch. “Where’s this driver? He’s late. You did confirm the arrangements?” She put her hand over her mouth. “Oh Todd, sorry. I forgot…” “What!” His eyes darkened. “The monkeys frightened me. It slipped my mind. I’m sure the driver will be here soon.” “Unless he forgets – like you.” Stung, she reached for her mobile. “I’ll ring them now.” “Better late than never,” he said, before reassuring the passengers who were starting to wilt in the sun.

The phone rang out; no answer. She was nearly crying when Todd returned. “Here – I’ll try,” he said. Why hadn’t she checked? Why had she let her anxiety stop her doing her job?

“Right … then please send another driver. What? You must have one.” Todd was furious. Suddenly she’d a brainwave. “Call Sergio! See if he can come back.” “But he’s having the afternoon off.” “Exactly – he’s free.” She dialled. Once she’d explained, Sergio kindly agreed to escort the afternoon group. “How did you do that?” Todd asked. “Used the Bowen charm … and suggested there were other Gib tour companies RIC might use in future.” “Bribery and corruption.” He laughed. Once Sergio arrived, the trip went like a dream. After the Hundred-ton Gun the coach climbed to St Michael’s Cave.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” drawled Nancy Goldstein. “I just love the coloured lights and music.”

As Nancy, using a gold walking cane, moved off with her friends, Maddie whispered, “Ha! Mrs G likes something!” Todd laughed and she smiled back. “How do you stay so patient, Todd?” “It’s not easy but she’s genuinely nervous. I’m just trying to calm her.”

Maddie smiled. His kindness had first attracted her to him. “These caves are truly beautiful.” “Almost,” Todd said, drawing her into an alcove, “as beautiful as you.” Gently he kissed her. There were many reasons why Maddie should push him away but she felt so close to him. She returned his kiss, hoping the moment would never end.

“Todd OBVIOUSLY loves the BONES of you,” Lorna CONTINUED