Page 57 of Too Far To Sea
Flutters. Dana had definitely been experiencing those. Coming back on ship with Hermione, her heart nearly fluttered right out of her. She never expected to feel that cliche reaction to anyone.
Dana hugged her sister. “I wish this never happened.”
“‘Next to being married, a girl likes to be crossed in love a little now and then. It is something to think of and gives her a sort of distinction among her companions.’ Isn’t that what Jane Austen wrote?”
“Yes, she did. Glad to know I have influenced you.”
“And I crossed the British Isles. That gives me more than enough distinction.” Cheyanne said in a poorly acted British accent.
“You’ll be alright then.”
“As soon as I get away from the rest of my bridesmaids I will be. They are trying so hard to talk of everything but the wedding. And poor Carlotta leaves the room whenever she sees me, like it’s her fault. I like her. We could be friends if she would stop taking on his guilt. Cousin doesn’t mean accomplice.”
“Have you talked to her?”
“I have, but I think she also feels guilty for taking your place in our room.”
“Should I say something? It worked out well for me. Look at this room. I couldn’t ask for better. And with the crutches, it was really nice those first few days not to have to put up with any of your noise and have a space small enough I didn’t need them.”
Chey rolled her eyes. “Put up with my noise? Some big sister you are, valuing peace and quiet over partying.”
“A big sister who thinks she needs to come back and visit. Christmas?”
“If you aren’t married by then…” her phone buzzed. “Looks like dinner is at the suite. Want to come eat with us?”
“Sure. I’ll speak to Carlotta too, maybe that will help her not feel so bad.”
Later, as the sun set, Dana took a walk around the track, glad that her ankle gave her no pain. On her second lap, McKay appeared through a nondescript side door.
“Hello, stranger.” She slowed her pace.
“What did you think of County Cork?”
“It was nice. I guess I’m just glad this cruise is almost over.”
“Do you have plans after?”
She looked out at the sea as to not appear too interested in him, CCTVs were watching. “I don’t fly home until Saturday. I’m thinking I’ll treat myself to a little Jane Austen tour of England.”
“My sister would be jealous.”
“She should be. I intend to go sit on the top of the Cobb and watch waves for at least an hour.”
“The Cobb is up a long stone wharf thing, isn’t it?”
“Points for knowing.”
“Let’s just say Jen and Mom make sure I’ve seen all the Jane Austen movies. And I readPride and Prejudice. It wasn’t that bad.”
Dana laughed. “When do you go home?”
“I have a few things to finish up with at the office, but I believe I will be flying home on Friday. The company is arranging it.”
“Have a good flight.”
He looked at his feet, almost as if he was unsure of himself. “Would you mind if I contact you when we are both stateside?”
“I’d like that. Do you want my number?”
