Page 24 of Examining Ella

Ella grew excited. Were they going to have the talk? The let’s define the relationship talk?

“If you don’t remember going to your room, I’m guessing you don’t remember running into Captain Reagan and Nelly.”

Ella thought about it and shook her head. She absentmindedly built a tower of bubbles in front of her, smiling at the growing white foam. “Nope. Don’t remember at all.”

“Well, Nelly asked if you wanted to ride go-karts with her today. We’re docking on an island that has a killer track. You up for it?”

Playing with another Little sounded amazing! She’d been hoping to make friends on that cruise. Maybe this was her big chance.

“I’d love to!” she said.

She chewed on the inside of her cheek as she considered her next words. “Bryan?”

“Yes, honey?”

“Would you put me in a diapee after my bath.”

She couldn’t see him on the other side of the door, but she could hear the smile when he spoke.

“Oh, cutie. Nothing would make me happier.”

Chapter Fifteen

The island was a tropical paradise.

The blue water lapped onto the white, sandy beach in refreshing waves. Though not native to the Caribbean Islands, Europeans had brought cocoanut trees to the shores many centuries ago. Now, the trees towered, providing palmy shade—not to mention their delicious fruit.

The salty smell of the ocean drifted in on the warm breeze. Ella was in heaven as she stepped off the boat and walked beside Bryan. They stopped under a tree and waited for the captain and Nelly.

It took a few minutes, but the other couple finally joined them.

“Wait until you see this go-kart track!” Nelly said. “You know that island level on Mario Kart?”

“Yeah.”

“It’s like that! You can ride right along the shore’s edge. It’s amazing!” Nelly said.

“Yes,” Captain Reagan said. “But unlike Mario Kart, you can’t throw turtles at people.”

The Littles laughed.

“No throwing turtles. I’ll try to remember that,” Ella said.

They strolled along a wooden boardwalk that led from the dock to the main part of the tiny island. There were local vendors set up in small tents along the way, selling handmade jewelry and other souvenirs. A few stands had fresh fruit. Some sold drinks.

“This place is beautiful,” Ella said.

“Just like you,” Bryan said. He grabbed her hand, brought it up to his lips, and kissed it as they continued their trek.

Ella’s stomach turned an excited somersault. There was no doubt Bryan had feelings for her. But how would that work out in the long run?

She’d have to consider all that later. Right now, it was time to ride the karts.

“Here we are,” the captain said as they approached the beginning of the track. “The way is clearly marked. It takes you all around the island.”

“Whoa!” Ella said.

“It’s the coolest!” Nelly said.

---