Santa Cruise

by Fern Michaels

  Rachael and her personal fan club marched their way to the Latin party, where piñatas were strung from trees, the waitstaff wore sombreros, and a mariachi band played lively music. The band stopped suddenly, and a hush fell over the crowd. The silence was broken by the opening strains of “Latin Boogie” by 2nd Shift. The official, unofficial dance troupe of the Medallion of the Seas shimmied through the crowd and did their surprise performance. Members of the mariachi band accompanied them with their percussion instruments. As the song came to a close, the ensemble formed a conga line and bopped their way to the elevator, with the sound of cheers and applause following them.

  The disco scene was their next target. They wasted no time pulling off another flash mob to the tune of “Boogie Oogie Oogie” by A Taste of Honey. When they had finished, Frankie said to Rachael, “Do I sense a theme here?”

  Rachael laughed. “Do you know how hard it was to find a song by Jimmy Buffett that had the words ‘boogie woogie’ in it?”

  “I can only imagine.”

  “Thank goodness for Google.” Rachael cackled. “Let’s go. We have one more, and this is the hardest.”

  The troupe and their followers entered the last party area. It was decorated with several soda fountains, some serving alcohol, others milkshakes. A dose of Baileys Irish Cream was also available. The female servers wore poodle skirts and cardigan sweaters with sweater clips, saddle shoes, and bobby socks. The men wore slacks, plaid shirts, and bow ties. As soon as the first measures of “Bandstand Boogie” started, eight couples swung each other around all over the dance floor. It could have been a reenactment of the early days of American Bandstand. When the song ended, thunderous applause echoed through the room and out to the deck, where dozens had gathered to get a peek at the impromptu show.

  Henry was beaming as he hugged each and every one of his performers. “I cannot express my joy for the work you put into this evening. Once people discovered you were the same group as the other night, I was getting commitments for donations. This has been the most wonderful New Year’s Eve I have spent. Thank you all.” He put his arm around Rachael and gave her a big squeeze. He addressed his other students. “Shall we go watch the fireworks?”

  Frankie, Amy, Peter, Nina, and Richard followed the throng to the main deck, where glasses of champagne were being handed to guests. A large digital clock counting down the minutes and seconds hung on the railing.

  The crowd cheered: “Ten. Nine. Eight. Seven. Six. Five. Four. Three. Two. One. Happy New Year!” The ship’s horn sounded, and a brilliant display of fireworks exploded in the air, the glimmering reflection bouncing off the calm sea.

  Frankie and Amy hugged Peter. Nina and Richard kissed. Rachael and Henry pecked each other’s cheek. It felt wonderful to be in an idyllic setting celebrating a new year with good friends. Somewhere else on board, William Blanchard and Marilyn Mitchell held hands as the last of the fireworks died out.

  About a half hour later, the crowd began to thin, passengers returning to one of the parties or to their staterooms. They still had one more full day ahead in Grand Cayman before the journey home.

  When Frankie got back to her stateroom, she unlocked the safe and checked her phone for any messages. There was one text message.

  Hello Francesca, Bandit and I wish you a Happy New Year. See you soon. Ciao. Giovanni.

  She stood motionless. Sweet, but why? Did his fiancée come back to the States with him? She shrugged and chalked it up to a nice gesture. My cat wishing me a Happy New Year. She quickly typed:

  Happy New Year to you and Bandit!

  Chapter Twenty-one

  Day 6

  Grand Cayman Island

  The shortest day onshore was at Grand Cayman, with only about six hours available to enjoy the island known for its beaches and colorful coral reefs. Amy was the happy recipient of Frankie’s generosity for the trip to Stingray City. Nina, Rachael, and Frankie planned to go horseback riding on the beach. It would take about two hours, giving them time for a light lunch followed by some duty-free shopping. It was the one thing they had promised themselves months before. Richard and Peter were going snorkeling with several others from the ship.

  The first tender to the island left at nine and took about a half hour to reach George Town, known for its high-end shops and restaurants. Given the absence of street vendors, one could enjoy leisurely window-shopping or plunk down a lot of coin at luxury, premium boutiques. “Duty-free,” Rachael reminded them. “And don’t forget it’s a British overseas territory. They drive on the left side, so when you cross the street, make sure you don’t get confused.”

  Peter pointed to a shuttle that said EDEN ROCK DIVING CENTER. “That’s us.” He tapped Richard on the chest.

  There was a short awkward moment between Richard and Nina. Should he kiss her? Instead, he gave her a long stroke on her arm. “See you later. Have fun.” Nina smiled back at him.

  Frankie spotted the van that said BARKER’S NATIONAL PARK.

  “We’re over there.” She pointed it out to the others.

  Amy scoured the area, then saw the sign that read STINGRAY CITY. “And I’m over there.” She held on to her floppy hat with one hand and waved with the other. “See you guys later. Enjoy.”

  “You too!” Nina shouted.

  The drive to the park for the horseback riding took less than twenty minutes. Frankie was calculating the amount of time they would have for lunch and shopping. “Should be a pretty full day but we shouldn’t have to rush around.”

  They had a typical tourist conversation with the guide. “First time here? Planning on shopping?” etc.

  “The island is beautiful,” Frankie said, and he responded with pride. The driver spoke English and explained that the different accents to be found on the island were due to the influx of people in the 1700s, when the Cayman Islands were part of Jamaica, then a British territory. In 1962, Jamaica declared its independence, leaving the Cayman Islands a territory. Grand Cayman, only twenty-two miles long and eight miles wide, had become one of the world’s largest financial centers. Which was a good explanation for the opulent shopping.

  The women stared out the window of the van, admiring the scenery. When they arrived, they were greeted by an athletic-looking young woman. She had a long blond ponytail and a baseball cap. Her jeans were rolled up to her calves. A white T-shirt was tucked in the front, and a light denim work shirt was tied around her waist. She had everyone fill out the proper paperwork, signing off on requirements and waivers. They discussed the experience level. It had been several years since Frankie was on a horse, although she had ridden frequently before moving into the city. Nina had ridden once within the past year, but Amy hadn’t been in a saddle since college. They decided a leisurely walk on the beach with a little canter would be appropriate. Anyone who was having any difficulty could give a yell.

  The horses were already saddled. The only adjustments were the stirrups. Once they were comfortably seated, the three women and their guide clicked their tongues and gave the horses a little tap with their heels. The horses knew the routine well and began the peaceful trek to the shoreline. The sound of the waves lapping on the shore and the cries of the gulls engulfed them in a state of euphoria. It was one of those rare moments where the surrounding beauty could bring tears to your eyes. It was the closest thing to paradise that one could imagine.

  And it put Frankie in a very introspective mood. Not that it took much for her to soul-search. She was always seeking a higher level of enlightenment. Some days she succeeded, others, not so much. But that day was illuminating. She thought about Rachael. Rachael, the girl who kept looking for validation from men and had finally found it in herself and her own accomplishments. Then there was Amy. Brainiac Amy. She was enthralled with discovering new things and solving puzzles. But the road she had been traveling was taking her further away from the things that brought her joy. So she had made a decision to change that path, and now she was moving in a different direction. It was
a risk, but one she was willing to take. Staying where she was wasn’t a good option. Then there was Nina, who had been forced to make a change. At first, she hadn’t known what course to follow. When she had finally decided to let go, a new opportunity presented itself. Trust. That’s the key, Frankie thought. Faith and trust. She felt a sense of renewal wash over her. She felt it in her heart. Her time would come.

  There was little conversation during the ride. When they had reached the farthest point of the ride, the guide asked them if they wanted to run the horses a bit. They nodded and turned their horses in the direction whence they had come. A few kicks and clicks, and the horses began to canter, a more comfortable pace than trotting.

  The guide slowed to give the horses a chance to cool down before they returned. The two hours went by swiftly. They were ready for a leisurely lunch and perhaps sampling the local beer. Caybrew claimed to be “the freshest beer you will ever drink.”

  The woman from the stable recommended either Di Bess Jerk Stand, which was more of a food truck with a canopy, or the Caribbean Kitchen, also an open-air spot with a sign reading PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE CHICKENS.

  That was a deal breaker for Rachael. It was Di Bess Jerk Stand for her. And the rest of them.

  After they munched on spicy Jamaican chicken and enjoyed a cold brew, they were ready to take on Kirk Freeport, the Disney World of duty-free jewelry, watches, perfume, and leather goods.

  They dispersed when they walked into the massive store, with its row after row of displays filled with items by Cartier, Mikimoto, Dior, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and many, many more. It was a who’s who of designer selections.

  Frankie was overwhelmed. They were like kids in a candy store. She thought she would simply pick up some perfume, but when she saw the prices on gold bangle bracelets, she knew she had to get one for herself. A memento of the momentous journey. A journey she had suggested. Yep. She deserved a treat, so she picked a 14-karat-gold twisted-rope bangle.

  Nina bought a Cartier tote for carting around scripts. She thought the pun was apropos. Rachael purchased a silk scarf by Hermès. They also grabbed several bottles of their favorite perfumes and some Cuban cigars. Shopping bags in tow, they ventured back to the dock to wait for the tender.

  Amy wouldn’t be back until an hour or so later. She had opted for the three-hour tour. First was Stingray City, where you literally walked around on a sandbar and petted any of fifty-plus stingrays. The charter provided snorkeling gear and food to feed the stingrays in the clear, blue-tinted water. After an hour frolicking with the massive cartilaginous fish, the charter boat took them to Starfish Point, where they could lounge in the shallow waters and look for starfish and shells. People were not allowed to take any of the precious native gems from the island, but they were encouraged to take photos. The return trip included an inside look at the pristine Mangrove Channels and the ecosystem. Amy expressed delight at every turn. Her enthusiasm was almost as entertaining as the guide, who, when their excursion ended, jokingly offered her a job as their public-relations director. Amy wrapped a sarong around her damp bathing suit and thanked the guide one more time.

  * * *

  Plans for dinner had been set before they left the ship. All six, including Peter and Richard, agreed on Takumi, the Japanese restaurant, where they served everything from sushi to hibachi-grilled meats and shrimp. There would be a large enough variety to satisfy everyone.

  It was another fun-filled day, but it was also exhausting. Frankie thought Amy was right. They would need a vacation after this one. Dress was casual, which everyone appreciated. It would be too much of an effort to think about anything more than a pair of capri pants, a tunic, and sandals. The following night would be the final dinner of the cruise and a much fancier affair. Frankie was tired simply thinking about it.

  The return trip from Grand Cayman to Miami would be a full day of cruising. Frankie booked a two-hour massage, facial, manicure, and pedicure, and anything else she could find on the spa menu. Rachael was going poolside, as was Amy. Nina and Richard were going to take in the matinee performance of a new comedian. But tonight they would gather and share their stories and adventures over sake and Japanese cuisine.

  The women met in the hallway and knocked on Peter’s door. Richard planned to meet them at the restaurant, where he waited at the door. Feeling a little loosey-goosey, Frankie decided to break the ice and give Richard a casual hug. Rachael, Amy, and Nina followed suit. When it came to Peter, he turned to Amy and hugged her instead. “I didn’t want my arms to feel left out,” he clumsily joked. Amy thought it was sweet.

  They were seated in a traditional private tatami room, with mats and a low dining table. Diners sat on low pillows surrounding the table with their legs dangling underneath in a pit that went around the perimeter of the table. Once you folded yourself in, it was quite comfortable. Getting out was also a bit of a challenge to avoid looking like part of a circus act.

  Two hours of lively conversation filled the small room, with everyone relating the highlights of the day. By nine thirty, everyone was ready for a good night’s sleep.

  Nina and Richard took a stroll on the deck to watch the lights of the beautiful Caribbean island grow dimmer on the horizon. She decided now would be a good time to tell him she was moving back East.

  She looked toward the waning flickers in the distance. “I guess that’s what it’s going to look like in my rearview mirror.”

  Richard turned to her. “What do you mean?” He was genuinely confused.

  “I’m leaving LA next month.” Nina stared out to the darkening ocean.

  “Really? Had enough of Tinseltown?” Richard sounded a bit nervous.

  Nina could sense his body get tense. She regretted having opened her mouth. He nudged her with his elbow.

  “I think the feeling is mutual.” Nina turned to him and smiled. “I’ll be happy to get back East. Funny how things happen. Two months ago, I had no idea what I was going to do, and now I’m changing jobs and moving. It’s a lot to absorb. I’m going to have to think like a giant barrel sponge.” She laughed.

  “I think you can handle it.” Richard was sincerely pleased for her.

  “Thanks. It will be an adjustment, and I will have to find my own place eventually because of Winston, but that shouldn’t be too difficult. As far as work, Owen lives in Fort Lee, which is only a half-hour drive with no traffic. But there’s always traffic, so let’s call it an hour. We can meet almost anywhere while we’re working on the script.”

  “That’s fantastic, Nina. Will you have to go into the city often?”

  “Not until they start production. We’ll write eight episodes, then work with the actors.”

  “So everything is all set?”

  “Not really. The network is giving us the budget for a pilot. It could all begin and end there. Show biz. It’s a crapshoot until you become a major player with beaucoup bucks.” Nina didn’t sound bitter; nor did she sound concerned. “I’m happy to be working toward something. You know what they say, ‘We plan. God laughs.’ I think that’s finally sinking in. Finally.” She turned to face Richard. “I hope we can stay in touch. It would be nice to see you again.”

  “I’ll just be a short ride away.” Richard put his arm around her. She really believed it, too.

  They stood in silence for a while. Nina was the first to speak. “I should be getting back. I am whipped.”

  “Me too.” Richard hooked his arm so Nina could place hers through his. They walked slowly to her stateroom, where he gave her a sweet kiss. This one lingered a bit longer than the first.

  Chapter Twenty-two

  Cruising Home

  The final day of the cruise was upon them. Packing and relaxing was on the agenda. Dinner would be semiformal in the main dining room. It was the captain’s opportunity to thank the crew and the passengers.

  Frankie packed everything except her clothes for the evening and the following day. That would give her ample time to enjoy her spa day and
not have to do or think about much afterward. Dressing for dinner would be the only task.

  Nina, Amy, and Rachael followed Frankie’s lead.

  Amy phoned her father and asked if he and Marilyn would join them at dinner. He checked with Marilyn, who thought it would be an ideal way to end her trip—the same way it started—with a group of exuberant, talented, and intelligent women. She was looking forward to it.

  After speaking with her dad, Amy knocked on Frankie’s door.

  “Dinner plans. I invited my father and Marilyn to sit at our table.”

  “Excellent idea. We should also grab Peter.” Frankie folded several items and placed them in the large roller bag.

  “I’ll go tell him.” Amy smiled coyly.

  “What?” Frankie gave her a look. “You kinda like him, don’t you?”

  “In a geeky, accountant kind of way.” Amy blushed.

  “Well, I’ll be darned. Why didn’t you say anything before?” Frankie stopped what she was doing.

  “Because I wasn’t sure if I liked, liked him.” Amy took a deep breath. “Plus, I didn’t know if I was going to get the job, and I didn’t want to start to like someone who lived thirty-five-hundred miles away. Plus he had been hanging around with that photographer.”

  “Yeah. But that got old really quickly. He mentioned it in passing. Unlike us, stalking passengers for the photographer wasn’t his thing.” Frankie chuckled. Frankie sat next to Amy and put her arm around her. “So? What are you waiting for?”