Page 19 of Obsessed Heir

Does that floor stretch out over the water? I think it was farther in, but I can’t be sure. And I don’t know that I want to find out. I stare down at the base of the glass door, knowing I won’t go near the railing. I shudder involuntarily.

“Mrs. McClelland won’t be able to get across this easily,” he remarks, glancing toward the rail. “But if she’d like to, I’d be happy to take her out there,” he offers.

Managing a strained smile, I force out a strangled, “Okay.”

Mercifully, James closes the balcony door, blocking out the dizzying view. “Being out at sea can be a bit overwhelming at first. Most passengers find their sea legs after a while.”

“Thank you.” I’m glad he’s perceptive enough to understand my fear.

“You’re right down the hall.”

I follow him automatically. My limbs tingle with relief at the thought of reaching the safety of my own space, even if temporarily. Part of me is dreading having to eventually cross paths with Barron again. Being able to barricade myself in my own room for a reprieve sounds incredibly appealing.

“Abby,” Holly calls from behind me, her tone one of open curiosity.

I turn slowly. “Yes, m…” I catch myself before saying ma’am. “Yes?”

“We’re heading up to celebrate the launch,” she says with an expectant lilt. Does she assume I’ll be joining them? I’m rooted to the spot in stunned silence, saliva pooling under my tongue.

“It’s tradition,” James explains. “Passengers and crew assemble on deck to see the ship pull out of port and get underway. More so because this is the ship’s maiden voyage.”

The bottom drops out of my stomach, leaving me feeling hollow and lightheaded. I can’t fathom anything more terrifying than being out on deck, watching us casting off into deeper water.

“Is…is Miss Opal planning to attend?” I ask in a strangled voice. I’m silently praying she’s staying in.

“No,” Holly replies, disappointed. “She’s not up to it.”

The knot of dread eases a bit, offering some relief. “I’ll stay and help her get settled,” I state firmly.

Nothing on this earth could compel me to willingly put myself through that kind of torture. I’ll happily take refuge with Miss Opal.

“Okay,” Holly accepts with only the barest hesitation. “James can give you directions, in case you change your mind.”

“Thank you,” I murmur, knowing full well that won’t happen.

Barron comes up behind her, bringing his mother to her room. I duck through the open doorway into my own room, giving him enough time to wheel her in.

Holly’s words ring in my ears.We’re heading up…

I should be there to take over, since he’s about to leave. I check the closet area and find the smaller suitcase. Extending the handle, I roll it out to the hall just as Barron leaves.

“Miss Abby.” James halts in the doorway. “If you need anything, I’ll be available.”

I can’t think of a single thing at the moment. However, we’re usually having our meal at noon, and it’s way past that back home. “Miss Opal may be ready for lunch.”

“Oh, I am,” she says from inside the room, sounding more chipper.

We share a smile.

“I’ll return shortly,” James promises.

“Thank you, James,” I reply, oddly reassured by his professionalism. “We may have to rely on you, at least for today.”

With me being unfamiliar with the ship, and so many people on board, this is certainly the best alternative.

“That’s not a problem, Miss Abby,” he assures me without a hint of judgment. “I’ll be taking care of you personally, night and day.” He turns and strides back down the hall.

I give a relieved smile as he walks away, only to freeze as I catch Barron’s hostile glare directed our way from the living area.

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