Noticing his hesitation, I continued, “Come on, you’re just being overly dramatic. And it’s a good thing that this isn’t a movie.” I laughed. “Thanks for the concern, Ty. But I’ll be fine, I promise.”
He stared at me for a moment.
“Hey, eyes on the road, chauffeur. Let’s make it to the dock in one piece, shall we?” I teased.
He did.
“I trust that you’re going to be okay.”
“Thank you.” I sketched a bow. “And to answer your question, from what I understand, we’ll have some free time to relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities. Maybe we’ll do some group activities and excursions—I don’t know. I’m not entirely sure what’s planned, but I know it’ll be great.”
He nodded affirmatively and asked, “Do you plan to continue on this path? You know, this modeling path?”
I sighed. “Honestly, I don’t know. I’m still thinking about it, though. But if I keep getting invited to parties like this, I just might.”
“That’s what I like to hear,” he replied with a smile.
As Tyler’s car pulled up to the harbor, I could see the sleek white cruise ship docked in the distance, its sails and rigging gleaming in the sunlight. The sound of seagulls filled the air, mingling with the hum of activity from the dockworkers and passengers milling about.
Tyler brought the car to a halt alongside a sign that read ‘Luxury Cruises’ and turned to face me with a smile.
“Well, this is it!” he said.
“Thanks for the ride, Ty. I appreciate it.”
“Hey, that’s what friends are for—don’t make a big deal out of it.”
I smiled, giving him a small nod.
“Alright. You have a fantastic time, okay? You deserve it.” He helped me out of the car and handed me a small bag, wishing me a safe and enjoyable journey before driving off.
As I made my way toward the ship, I was greeted by the friendly face of Sienna Summers, who was waiting by the gangway. She was a friend I had met at the after-party and got so comfortable around. She was beautiful, sweet, and vibrant. We got along so well, and I was glad to meet her again.
Sienna’s long, curly hair cascaded down her back like a golden waterfall, and her sharp green eyes sparkled with warmth. She was dressed in a stylish white sundress, her slightly tanned skin glowing in the natural light.
“Vivian! So great to see you again!” Sienna exclaimed, embracing me in a warm hug.
“Hi, Sienna,” I replied with a smile. “I’m so glad that we’re on this adventure together!”
“You know, when Asher reached out to me, I asked him if you would be here, as well, but he said he hadn’t called you yet. I was really hoping you would come around, and here you are.”
“Yep. Here I am.” I chuckled.
Seeing Sienna was like a breath of fresh air, which made me feel an instant sense of comfort and connection with her, just as I had at the after-party. Despite not knowing much about each other, I trusted my instincts and was excited to spend more time with this kindred spirit and the others I would meet inside.
A couple of familiar faces walked past us, and we exchanged pleasantries; it seemed like this was going to be fun, and I couldn’t stop smiling.
“Come on, let’s get you settled in, shall we?” Sienna helped me with my bag, and we headed into the ship.
Once inside, I was immediately struck by the elegant decor and warm atmosphere. It was beautiful, and I fed my eyes, taking in the polished wood paneling, sparkling chandeliers, and plush carpets.
Sienna’s phone rang, and she stared at the lit screen for a moment.
“Please, excuse me. I have to take this,” she said to me.
A crew member passed by at that instant, and she turned to him.
“Hey, can you show my friend to her room? Her name is Vivian Kennedy. Thank you. Hello?” She said this last statement after answering the phone and starting to walk away.