Page 72 of Ship Happens

“Okay, but it won’t hurt to have a friend in the media, who can tell our side if things get ugly.”

Chapter Thirteen

HARPER

GOING PUBLIC

“It’s officially live,” I announce, staring at my laptop screen where my environmental expose of Cole Tech’s cruise operations now appears on my publisher’s website, complete with an attention-grabbing headline.

Inside Cole Tech’s Environmental Impact: The Unvarnished Truth.

Ethan leans over my shoulder, his coffee mug paused halfway to his lips. “Well, that headline’s subtle.”

“My publisher’s choice, not mine.” I scroll through the introduction, checking for any last-minute editorial changes. “I wanted ‘Comprehensive Assessment of Environmental Practices and Future Sustainability Initiatives.’”

“Shockingly, that doesn’t have quite the same clickbait appeal.” His hand rests warm on my shoulder, thumb tracing small circles at the nape of my neck. “How are you feeling?”

“Nervous. Relieved. Proud of my work.” I close the laptop, turning to face him. “Concerned about the inevitable backlash once people realize we’re together.”

We’re in my apartment this morning—a deliberate choice so I could do this from my space, maintain some professional separation. Ethan arrived at dawn with coffee and breakfast, understanding without being told that I needed the emotional support today.

“Your work speaks for itself,” he reminds me, settling into the chair beside mine. “The backlash is nothing we cannot handle.”

“And those who only read the headline or cherry-pick quotes to support their opinions?”

“We’re never going to engage with the crazy people,” he finishes for me. “You’ve always known that.”

I sigh, leaning back in my chair. “I know. I just want the work to matter. To be a part of real change, not just generate controversy.”

“It already has,” Ethan points out. “My board approved all my requests based on your findings. The change was already happening before it’s even been public for five minutes.”

“Thank you,” I say. “For respecting the process. For not trying to influence me. For understanding why this matters so much to me.”

“Of course.” He leans forward, brushing a kiss against my temple. “Your ethics is one thing I admire most about you.”

My phone buzzes with an incoming text, the first of what will be many reactions today. It’s from Zoe:

It’s live! Already getting social media traction. The waste system analysis is damning while acknowledging the containment effectiveness. Perfect balance of critique and credit. You knocked it out of the park, Bennett.

I show Ethan the message, relief washing through me at this first positive response.

“One endorsement down,” he says with a smile. “Arguably from my toughest critic, since she’s both a journalist and protective of you.”

“True.” I set the phone down as it buzzes again with notifications. “And how are things on your end? Any board tantrums yet?”

“Alex is monitoring things,” he replies, his deliberate corporate phrasing making me smile. “She will tell me if I need to worry, or calm any tantrums.”

My phone rings—my publisher. I take a deep breath, answering with professional composure.

“Dr. Bennett speaking.”

“Harper, it’s Richard. The piece is live and already generating significant traffic.” My publisher’s voice contains the enthusiasm of expected controversy. “We’re getting media requests for interviews. How’s your availability today and tomorrow?”

“I can make time,” I reply, making eye contact with Ethan, who nods. “Which outlets?”

“Environmental publications, obviously. But also, mainstream business media—CNBC wants you for a segment this afternoon, and Bloomberg is requesting a joint interview with you and Ethan Cole.”

I freeze momentarily, unprepared for this specific complication so quickly. “A joint interview? Why?”

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