Page 42 of Fast Track to Forever
"Regardless.” My father’s tone is final and resolute. “This changes nothing about Will and his family. We do not approve of you two being together."
Will starts to say something but then closes his mouth and stands, offering me his hand. "Thank you for your time, Mr. and Mrs. Featherstone. We won't take up any more of it. We'll be in touch soon. Come on, Kat."
Gripping my handbag tightly, I stand up and take Will's hand with determination. "Love you," I tell my parents, but they are too stunned to respond.
Once we are outside on the front step, I purse my lips . "That didn't go well. Maybe we should try talking to your parents."
Will's eyes narrow with determination. "I have an idea."
Chapter 18
31st December
Queenstown, NZ
Will
Downtown in the Queenstown centre,the New Year’s Eve party preparations are in full swing. Crews have brought lighting rigs and firework stations, and they're working on setting up a stage.
I have no doubt Daryl and John will be partying it up here tonight, but I have other plans.
I pull my cap further down. I'll still probably get recognized but maybe not as much. I cross the road towards the pontoon by the lake, and head straight to the booking office.
A young woman smiles when she sees me. “We were waiting for you, Mr. De Jong. The TSS Earnslaw is ready.”
I nod. “Is everyone onboard?”
“Not yet, Miss Featherstone and her family aren't here yet.”
I frown. “Okay. I'll get on now. Remember, not a word about the other passengers.”
The girl nods. “Absolutely. Enjoy your trip on The TSS Earnslaw.”
I tap my cap and sprint up the steps.
“Mr. De Jong!” A deckhand nods and welcomes me on board.
I can count on the fingers of both hands the times I’ve been on this classic steamer from one side of the lake to the other. I figured if I hire it, everyone will be a captive audience.
“Mr. De Jong.” The captain seems excited to see me. “Could I please have a photo?”
“Sure, but… can I please ask you not to post it on social media for an hour or so? For privacy reasons.” I hope the captain will understand.
He nods, we pose together, and he snaps a pic, then I step into the covered main deck where someone is playing the piano.
“This is very nice, Will.” My mom waves from where she, my dad, Daryl, and John are having a high tea at a table. “These scones are great. But your dad's are better.” My mum whispers the last bit, and my dad laughs. Everyone seems relaxed. I hope this works.
“Don't you want some, dear?” Mom waves a scone at me.
“He's just arrived mum, let him be.” Daryl is in on it.
I take my cap off and place it on a bench. “Lovely music, very relaxing.”
“I must say I was surprised when I saw there were no other passengers. Daryl said you booked it all for us.” My dad is awed.
“It's nothing, Dad. Just wanted to say thank you for supporting me. And—” The engine noise kicks in, letting me know that the Featherstones have embarked, and we're getting ready to sail. “And anyway, I had another idea dive deeper into later. How about some rentals I can invest in? That way you can still work at the lodge if you want to but have a separate income.”
My mum and dad look at each other but don't say no straight away.
