Part 22

The chefs had served lunch on the deck. Haisley, still unsteady, left Nathan, who remained silent. Gilbert was already on the deck, wearing his unbuttoned shirt and knee-length shorts. Loretta was back in her beach sarong, wearing a bikini and damp hair.

The lemon had at least settled Haisley's stomach a bit. She picked up a plate and started filling it with food, then carried it to the quietest corner she could find.

Gilbert sat beside her. He put his slightly wrinkled hand on Haisley's forehead. "You're not running a fever, but you look really pale, Princess," he whispered, concern lacing his voice.

Haisley forced a smile. "There's something I need to tell you, G," she replied, gazing at Gilbert with sad eyes.

"We can talk elsewhere," he said, taking Haisley's plate with his right hand while his left hand gently held her small one. They went back inside the ship, walking through the corridors until Gilbert opened a door.

He led Haisley into the karaoke room and locked the door from