“I’m hydrophobic.” When she caught the frown pulling at his dark eyebrows, she added, “I have to learn to conquer my fear sometime, don’t I?”
The frown dissipated and he rose, pleased by her response. “That’s the spirit. Everything you’ll need is in this folder. Boarding begins at three, so I would recommend going home and packing.”
He held out a manila folder, but didn’t let go when she moved to take it. “I know you’ve heard the rumors about Fantasy Cruises. I want you to prove or disprove every one of them. While you’re at it, have some fun. Might do you some good to loosen up a bit.”
WTH! This man—a man who probably color-coordinated his socks and underwear—was telling her to loosen up? By comparison, she was a wild child. But, given her morning, she wasn’t about to press her luck. Instead, she thanked him and exited the office, clutching the folder to her chest as though it were a life preserver.
She was going on a cruise. Correction, she was going undercover on an erotic cruise. There were serious possibilities for this assignment that went beyond what Tom had in mind. If any of the rumors about Fantasy Cruises were true, then dumping Nick was the best thing she’d done in a long time.
There was the matter of her fear of water to contend with, but as she opened the folder and examined her itinerary, she drew in a deep breath. It was either deal with her fears or write about penguins for the rest of her career. She’d be damned if she would do that.
Go big or go home. She returned to her desk to grab her purse. What do you wear on an erotic cruise anyway?
Chapter Two
At seven in the morning, laughter was the last thing Scott Nolan expected to hear while mounting the three steps leading to the ship’s nightclub, the Cleopatra. With the Hedonna setting sail that evening, he figured his manager, Kathy Ross, would have the other employees scrambling to make sure the club was the picture of excellence. Which it was, but it had nothing to do with Kathy’s perfectionist ways.
Fantasy Cruises—a cruise line known for its erotic atmosphere—demanded the very best from its employees.
“I don’t want her to ‘spare my feelings.’ I want to make Cherry scream my name like she used to.”
Scott paused in the doorway and shook his head at the crackly voice coming from inside. Huddled around the end of the bar, he found his co-workers chuckling and murmuring to themselves. Dressed in red T-shirts with the cruise line’s logo printed on the back and white shorts, they looked more like a pack of giggling candy canes than employees of a cruise ship.
Among the group gathered around the portable radio was Kathy herself, amusement reflected in her eyes as she pushed off the bar and shook her head.
“I can’t believe the jackass just said that.” She narrowed her eyes when she spotted Scott in the doorway. “I see you finally decided to grace us with your presence.”
He nodded to the radio, deciding to ignore her comment about him being late. “Did I miss something?”
Kathy started to reply, when she was hushed by one of the waitresses. “Listen, guys. It’s not over yet.”
Scott had no idea what it was, but Lauren Nichols’ comment was enough to silence Kathy for a few moments at least.
“What did you say?”
He glanced at the radio. He knew that voice. His memory was fuzzy, but the familiarity of this person’s voice was crisp, comforting even.
“Does this have significant meaning?”
“Yeah,” the man replied coolly. “It means it’s time to end this call.”
“Okay, we’ll be back after a word from our sponsors. Up next, Dr. Kendrick will take more of your calls, so don’t go anywhere!”
Kendrick.
Joe Kendrick.
That was it. Man, he hadn’t heard that name in years. Not since he’d left his hometown over a decade ago. So his old buddy was a doctor now? A lopsided grin touched Scott’s lips at the thought. Joe had always been a straight A-student, while he and Joe’s younger sister, Charity, had barely skated by.
Charity.
Cherry.
Scott’s chest tightened at the memory of her. What was she up to these days? Growing up, they’d been best friends. Now, he didn’t even know where she lived.
“What a creep.” Lauren switched off the radio and folded her arms beneath her breasts. “If I were in that woman’s position, I’d tell that loser where to go. It takes nerve to call her out like that. The least he could have done was keep it anonymous.”
Kathy chuckled and turned to face her employees. “All right, guys. We have work to do, so let’s get going.” She nudged Scott in the ribs. “I want you and Justin to inventory what’s behind the bar.” With that, she walked away, barking orders to the servers and cooks lingering near the kitchen entry.
It took Scott several seconds to process Kathy’s instructions. After hearing Lauren’s comment, he lost himself in contemplation. Had the caller been talking about his Cherry? An unsettling feeling rippled through him. There were probably dozens of women named “Cherry” in San Diego County. Even if the caller had been referring to the girl he’d once known, what business was it of his? He hadn’t seen her in years, so to claim her as his was ridiculous at best.
“You all right, buddy?”
Scott shifted his attention from the liquor bottles to Justin Kelly, another bartender. No, he wasn’t all right. He was functioning on less than four hours sleep, hadn’t had his coffee yet, and for some God forsaken reason he’d just been catapulted down memory lane.
“I’m fine.”
Justin ran a hand through his shaggy brown hair and shrugged. “If you say so, but you don’t look fine. You look a little…rattled.” He pointed to an empty spot on the shelving unit. “We’re going to need another bottle of whiskey.”
Scott made a note of the liquor and released a slow breath. “I had a long night last night, that’s all.”
“Oh yeah?” Justin’s eyes sparkled with interest. “The Heartbreaker strike again?”
The love ‘em and leave ‘em persona Scott had adopted not only won him the nickname of the Hedonna Heartbreaker, but had earned him a reputation among the various female passengers. Every voyage, dozens of women asked him to make their fantasies come to life. He’d never met these women before, yet it didn’t keep them from seeking him out nor did it prevent him from giving them what they desired.
Scott chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck. “Not yet. I met a set of twins visiting from Paris and they happen to be going on the cruise. I took Spanish in high school, but I know what ménage à trois means.” He pointed to the wine rack beneath the bar. “Do we have any more Riesling in the back?”
Justin nodded, his mouth dangling in awe. “You have got to tell me your secret when it comes to women. I’m your roommate for God’s sake.”
“Too bad I’m never in the cabin, huh?” Scott lifted his eyes and grinned at Justin’s scowl. “When the time’s right, I’ll tell you. Let’s get this finished before Kathy has a meltdown.”
Scott continued with the inventory, grateful Kathy had assigned Justin to help him. The job wasn’t difficult, he just needed someone to keep him focused. He didn’t understand how hearing Charity’s name could bring about such an onslaught of memories, but he didn’t like it. He needed to get a hold of himself before the passengers boarded the ship. He had a reputation to maintain and he couldn’t afford to be caught daydreaming about the girl he’d walked away from all those years ago.
****
“I understand you’re hurt and angry over what Nick did this morning, but there are better ways of dealing with your feelings than this.”
Charity adjusted the earpiece on her phone before pulling up the retractable handle on the small suitcase. She should have known better than to answer her phone, but after listening to fifteen messages from her brother apologizing for that morning’s fiasco, she couldn’t leave without telling him something.
“I’m going on a cruise, not jumping off a cliff. Besides
, you’re too late. I’m already checked in and on my way to the ship.”
“That’s my point. Cruise ships are surrounded by water and, if memory serves correctly, you’re not especially fond of water. What’s more, you’re going on a Fantasy Cruise.”
“You’re the last person I expected to believe the rumors.” She weaved her way around a cluster of scantily clad women getting their picture taken. “It just so happens I’m going because I want to release my inner sex kitten.”
Joe groaned. “Thank you for that nightmare-inducing image, Cherry.”
Serves him right. “I’m boarding now, so I’ll call you later if I can get a signal. Sleep well.”
“You’re evil.”
“Love you, too. Bye.” With that, she removed her earpiece and slipped the phone into her purse before coming to a stop behind a long line of people waiting to cross the gangway.
Charity looked around in amusement. Between the excited chatter and animated gestures of the passengers waiting to board and the few scattered crewmembers buzzing along the crowded pier to make last minute preparations, she felt as though she were watching a movie in fast-forward. She couldn’t make out what anyone around her was saying, nor could she get a clear glimpse of what the crewmembers were doing, but she supposed it didn’t matter.
The line moved forward and a vivid image of slipping beneath the water’s surface flashed in her mind. Her lungs tightened in her chest and she fought off the wave of panic threatening to engulf her.
Not now. She wasn’t going to let her phobia get the better of her. Just because the ship had a swimming pool didn’t mean she had to get in, nor did it mean she had to participate in any of the water activities once they reached the ports of call. She had her assignment to think about and, if she was lucky, perhaps find someone to have a four-day fling with.
“Welcome aboard the Hedonna.”
Charity snapped out of her daze and smiled at the greeter while taking the pamphlet-sized map handed to her. She glanced at the cover and shook her head at Fantasy Cruise’s motto in dark purple letters at the bottom. Every fantasy is a reality waiting to happen.
Sure. If that were true, she wouldn’t have sat at home every Saturday night during high school while her friends went out on dates. She would have been among them, snuggling in a darkened movie theater and stealing kisses from the hottest guy in school—who just happened to be her best friend—Scott.
Scott Nolan. Now there was a man who could induce some fantasies. Tall, broad shouldered, and muscular, he’d starred in many of her late night fantasies—even after he’d left San Rico. She’d often imagined running her fingers through his thick hair, pulling his mouth to hers for a kiss that would curl her toes and turn her brain to mush.
Of course, she’d never told any of this to Scott. For starters, they’d been friends for so long he probably wouldn’t have taken her seriously. For another—and this was more likely the case—she’d been too self-conscious about her weight. She simply hadn’t thought he found her attractive.
“Wow.” She gave herself a mental shake. Where had that come from? With the exception of a few scattered fantasies when she had an itch she needed to scratch, she hadn’t given Scott a thought in almost twelve years.
“Excuse me, Miss? Do you need help finding your cabin?”
Did she need wha—Charity wrinkled her nose in confusion and glanced behind her. While strolling down memory lane, she’d also strolled down a dimly lit corridor that dead-ended at an employee entrance.
Her cheeks flamed. Oops. “That obvious, huh?”
He shook his head before leaning forward to look at the cabin assignment she was showing him. “Don’t be embarrassed. Your suite is two decks up. If you’ll come with me, I’ll show you to your cabin.”
She followed the steward to the elevator in silence, giving him the opportunity to tell her about some of the activities planned for later in the cruise. She was only half-listening, her eyes traveling over the numerous passengers milling in the hall, each of them looking as though they’d stepped out of the pages of a fashion magazine.
She glanced down at her faded denim shorts and tank top, a sigh threatening to escape her lips. And here she’d thought she would look cute in the girlish outfit. Yeah right. She was probably the most underdressed person onboard. Stop. Stop with the negativity. Sex kittens don’t care what others think. They’re confident even if they’re wearing burlap sacks.
“—and I’m not just saying this because I work here. The Hedonna sports some of the best entertainment you will find on any cruise ship. The Cleopatra, our premiere nightclub, has won numerous awards for service and hospitality.”
It took Charity several seconds to realize what the steward was saying and she pasted a smile to her face in hopes of concealing the fact she hadn’t been listening.
“Is it formal attire?” Might as well give the poor man the impression she’d been paying attention.
“Oh, heaven’s no. The only time formal wear is expected is in the main dining room at dinnertime. Even then, we encourage passengers to dress according to their comfort zone. I mean, who wants to wear a ball gown or a tuxedo while eating? A nice dress or suit is perfectly acceptable.”
Hmm. This was good to know. She’d packed her best dress for just such an occasion but, given her limited experience in wearing heels, she didn’t want to run the risk of falling flat on her face upon entering the restaurant.
“What if I don’t wish to eat in the dining room?”
“Not a problem. We have several excellent eateries onboard should you be interested or you can call down to the dining room to have room service delivered.” He held open the elevator doors for her and contemplated her for a moment. “Are you traveling alone?”
“Excuse me?”
If he noticed the flush creeping into her cheeks, he ignored it. He boarded the elevator and pressed the button for her deck.
He shrugged. “I ask only because the Cleopatra hosts a meet-and-greet for singles directly after the safety drill. It’s a good way for you to meet the other passengers.”
The heat subsided and she swallowed. “Oh. Um, yes, I’m traveling alone this time.”
This time? Like there was a chance in hell she would do this again? Well, why not? If she enjoyed herself and managed to get past her fear of water, then who knows? She might treat herself to another cruise during the holidays.
“How exciting. Well, I hope you enjoy yourself.” He gave her a not-so-subtle wink. “Though I’m sure you will. Ah, here we are. Follow me.”
Charity followed the steward down the corridor until they reached her cabin. He gently plucked the keycard from her hand before swiping it through the lock and pushing the door open. With a sweep of his hand, he gestured for her to enter first and she gasped upon entering.
“It’s gorgeous.” She twisted her head to look at him. “Are all of the rooms this nice?”
After setting her bag next to the door, the steward glanced around the room with pride.
“To a greater or lesser extent, yes. You have one of our larger suites, but every cabin is furnished with jetted tubs and a complimentary mini-bar. Also, you’ll find a gift basket, the contents of which are yours to keep.” He placed the keycard on the writing table beside him and smiled. “If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask for Duncan.”
Charity dug in her purse for her wallet and withdrew a few bills. “Thank you. I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.” She handed him the money. “What time does the safety drill begin?”
“Six-fifteen on the Helios deck. Trust me, you’ll know it’s time when you hear the horn blare.”
Lovely. “Sounds good. Thank you again.”
The steward left and Charity let out a puff of air. Though smaller than most hotel rooms she’d stayed in, the cabin was indeed luxurious. The cream-colored walls and burgundy drapes gave the room a romantic feel, while the framed abstract prints added a touch of style.
She turned an
d blinked. A large basket wrapped in purple cellophane sat perched in the middle of a cherry wood dresser. Curious, Charity unfastened the note card tied to the top and removed it from the envelope.
The captain welcomes you aboard and hopes all your fantasies become a reality.
Whatever. After this morning’s fiasco, the only fantasy she had involved Nick tied to a tree while a swarm of angry bees used him as their new hive. The thought brought a smile to her face as she unwrapped the basket.
And came face to face with the biggest vibrator she’d ever seen.
“Holy hell!”
She clamped a hand over her mouth and looked around the empty room in embarrassment. Her gaze returned to the basket. Good golly Miss Molly. What woman in her right mind would have a use for something so…so huge? The purple monstrosity was shaped like a penis with what looked like rabbit’s ears secured to the underside of the shaft.
She picked it up, finding the soft jelly-like material flexible enough to bend. Twisting the top, she was surprised by how quiet the device was. She figured something this big would be loud enough for the passengers in the next cabin to hear. It’s certainly quieter than ol’ Leroy.
Heat rushed to her cheeks at the thought of the vibrator she’d left at home. She set the toy aside with a shake of her head. To her relief, the other “goodies” were tame by comparison. Specialty lotions bearing the cruise line’s logo, a pair of heart-shaped handcuffs, pornographic movies, and a jasmine scented pillar candle rounded out the collection. Not exactly the fruit basket she’d been expecting, but then she had to remember where she was.
And why she was here.
Though there was no mistaking the cruise’s motive when it came to her “welcome present,” it didn’t prove the Hedonna was anything more than what it claimed to be—an erotic cruise liner meant to spice up the passengers’ love lives.
Just how was she supposed to prove—or disprove as the case may be—Tom’s theory regarding the ship? She wasn’t about to spy on the other passengers, and she doubted they would be brazen enough to engage in lurid sex acts in public. Hmm. She needed a plan before she embarked on her research.
Heartbreaker Page 2
