Page 39 of Obsessed Heir

“That’s quite all right.” Miss Opal gives her an understanding smile. “It means a lot that you would include me in such a significant occasion.” She sets her toast down. “It’s all so terribly exciting. You must tell me what you’re up to.”

Checkmate. She pulls one of the famous McClelland U-turns. We’re right back in the conversation Holly was trying to avoid.

Holly sighs, obviously used to this routine already. Regardless of her relationship with Barron, she doesn’t strike me as the type of person who would be rude to his mother.

To her credit, Holly recognizes that she won’t be able to sidestep Miss Opal forever. A rueful smile tugs at her lips as she gives in gracefully.

“Well, we had scheduled today to be picture day, since we’re going through a bit of a storm. But I ended up without a model.”

Miss Opal’s expression turns to remorse. “Oh dear, there I go causing a problem again.” Her shoulders droop.

“No.” Holly is quick to backpedal. “We will be taking pictures with you, but I had planned to give you time to heal.”

“Mhm,” she replies with an understanding hum.

“We had another model doing a layout for the website.” Holly’s tone turns thoughtful, as if she’s carefully considering her words. “But I’m rethinking the decision.” She presses her lips together. “She may not be the best person for the job.”

“I understand.” Miss Opal picks up her toast again. “You have to do what’s best for the company.”

That’s certainly one way to avoid sharing details. I make a mental note to steer clear of whatever drama is unfolding with this mysterious, unsuitable model. Clearing my throat, I attempt to shift the subject.

“What should I prepare for Miss Opal to make sure she’s ready for her photo shoot?”

The diversion works. “I want to capture a dinner scene. Perhaps something more intimate, like a captain’s table. We’re also doing a wine pairing later this week.”

Miss Opal’s eyes light up. “Wine pairing sounds delightful.”

“We’re fully booked for the events,” Holly continues with a huge grin. “So we’ll have to set up early, otherwise we’ll be in the way.”

“I just want to have things ready before we hit port.”

“You’ll have plenty of time.” Holly’s tone is reassuring as she digs into her grapefruit. “We don’t arrive at port until tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” I stop halfway through cutting a bite of sausage.

“That’s not later today?” Miss Opal asks in stunned disbelief.

“No.” Holly shakes her head. “Today is a sea day.”

“I’m so s-sorry,” Miss Opal stutters. “I must have misunderstood.” Her face turns from a healthy pink to a full-out glow on her cheeks. “I thought you mentioned we’d leave Seattle and have the day at sea.”

“We leave Seattle on the first day then have a day at sea,” Holly clarifies.

My heart sinks. While I might get away with wearing this again today, I can’t do it a third day in a row. Showering and putting on the same clothes I was wearing was icky enough once.

If I hurry, I may have some time to browse without having a guard dog following me around.

“Well, the evening wear is ready and hanging in the closet. Just let me know the schedule so I can make an appointment to get her hair done.”

Miss Opal beams. “You think of everything, Abby. What would I do without you?”

Other than not end up in a wheelchair? I keep the comment to myself, but it doesn’t make it any less true. “I’m sure you would do just fine.”

“Will you be needing both of us?” Miss Opal asks.

“Both of us?” The implication starts to sink in. The spotlight abruptly shifts to me. And we’re back to this not being funny.

“Um, I don’t think that’s part of the plan.” I can’t backpedal fast enough.

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