Page 23 of Obsessed Heir

“My goodness, I didn’t realize I packed so much,” Miss Opal muses, surveying the mounds of clothing and accessories with wide eyes.

A fond smile curves my lips. “Well, Holly did say to pack with picture taking in mind.” That called for a trip to San Antonio, since she needed an entire wardrobe overhaul. This would ensure she would be suitably glamorous and camera-ready for her son.

I grasp the larger suitcase with both hands and hoist it onto the rack, staggering as the floor shifts beneath my feet. The dense weight of the case nearly topples me before I catch myself. I clamp my fingers down on the chair handle just in time to keep my balance.

“Are you okay, dear?” Miss Opal’s concerned voice cuts through my momentary disorientation.

“Yes, ma’am.” I straighten but reach out to put my hand on the wall.

“This is quite disconcerting.” Miss Opal’s fingers clench reflexively in the bedding.

“Yes, it is.”

The gentle sway confirms that the ship is moving, gliding away from land with deceptive smoothness.

“Maybe if you close the curtains, it’ll be a little better,” she suggests kindly.

I swallow hard against the nausea in my stomach as we pick up speed. I hurry across the room, averting my gaze to avoid a glimpse of the dizzying scene.

We’re in full reverse, moving away from shore. I stab at the button for the curtain controls and focus on the corner. Seconds later, the heavy fabric panels glide closed, blocking out everything, including the afternoon sunlight.

I open my eyes again and face Miss Opal. She’s reached over to the switch above the end table. A quick click and light fills the room with a soft glow.

“Can you figure out how to turn the other lights on?” she asks.

“Of course.”

I head toward the entrance and try the switches until the overhead lighting flickers to life.

The world shifts again. I hold on to the wall as we change direction. Another memory hits me, of riding the city bus. Having to stand, clutching at Dad’s leg as the bus rounds a corner.

“I think that’s it.” Miss Opal exhales, oblivious to my inner turmoil. “We’re heading out.”

I’m positive the words are meant to set me at ease. They don’t. Not in the least, but now that we’re underway, the movement is much smoother. I try not to think about the fact there’s nowhere to run.

I force myself to continue unpacking, if only to occupy myself with something other than being out on open water. Cocktail dresses, casual outfits, and shoes are all put away in a matter of minutes.

Once the bathroom area is thoroughly sanitized and the toiletries are organized, I’m left with nothing else to distract me.

“The bathroom is large enough to accommodate the chair. But I don’t think we can get it in the door,” I observe, grasping at the conversation like a lifeline.

Miss Opal nods understanding.

“I’m sure I’ll be okay with the few steps to the toilet,” she assures me calmly. She then gives her swollen ankle an emphatic little wiggle. “Besides, it should only be a few days.”

“I’ll ask James to track down a chair for you to use in the shower.” I mentally add it to my ever-growing to-do list.

“I can’t believe I’m creating such a problem for everyone.” She sighs, shaking her head despondently.

“Oh, don’t worry,” I counter with a dismissive wave. “That’s why I’m here.” I’ll make it a point to avoid voicing any tasks so she doesn’t feel like a burden.

“And I brought you along without a single bit of your luggage.” She presses her lips together in a thin line. “I know,” she says, brightening. “Why don’t you go out and do some shopping?”

My heart sinks as I consider the exorbitant prices I glimpsed while researching the ship’s amenities. Every store had a brand name, and every brand name added another digit to the cost. I’m not sure I can afford anything on board.

“I think I should wait,” I hedge.

“But you need something to wear,” she presses. “Nothing I own will fit you.”

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