Cruise party

~14~

Chiara

The cruise was lively as I roamed around, trying to find my target. There were three decks in total. Each part had its own kind of entertainment. The top deck was the peak of them all. I caught a glimpse of a guy held upside down by two other people on a keg stand. Karaoke battles that made my ears want to curl. Some people were not meant to sing. I included.

I wandered further outside to the open-air deck. There was a live DJ and a dance floor where several people were dancing as though it were a nightclub. The energy was high and contagious. Some were in a swimming pool playing throwing balls like kids and other games. It was quite satisfying to see all those people dressed up in a tropical theme.

I walked past people who were having a dance-off, almost breaking their spines for the prize. It was entertaining as well as painful to watch. Yup, a beer will do. So, I trekked to the open bar and ordered one, and then got downstairs and went to stand by the railing, where there was less of a crowd. The wind whipped my hair, and I enjoyed the view, sipping my beer away.

The lake was Y-shaped and formed by three branches converging at the town of Bellagio. Encircled by steep mountains. The landscape created a series of secluded bays and inlets, enhancing its picturesque view. The environment was unique here, giving a sense of warmth and calmness. The lakeside was surrounded by exquisite villas and expensive, magical gardens. I was charmed by its timeless beauty. I drew in a deep breath. I’d never been here before, but I was glad I did this time around instead of turning the invitation down.

In the past…

“You roamed all over Europe baby, so jealous of you. I’ve been to many places in Italy but one place is on my bucket list. Someday I’ll go, with or without your busy ass.” I said.

The man chuckled. “Okay, what is this place? Where do you want to go?” He uttered, running his hands in my hair as I rested my head on his chest. The room reeked with our after sex smell.

My eyes lit up at his words. I lifted my head to face him, and said eagerly. “Lake Como.” He cupped my face tenderly, the emotions that sparkled in his eyes mirrored mine. “Fine. How about this weekend then?” He said.

I lay on top of him, “Really?” Tucking my hair behind my ear. “Yes. Anything for you, baby.” He replied. I leaned down and captured his lips with mine. “Thank you.” I uttered before kissing him again “I love you.” He said over my mouth. “I love you too.” I replied.

**

Right after having breakfast, I drove to meet with my boyfriend. I couldn’t wait for the weekend to arrive. Damn, my stomach was filled with butterflies every time I thought about the things we were going to do together. Sinful, wicked things.

I pulled up my car in front of the building where his apartment was but there were a group of people surrounding something. I moved closer to take a peek and that’s when a scream tore from my throat, tears streaming like a broken dam. I stared in disbelief and pure horror as my heart shattered into pieces.

I knew exactly who did it. And it was all my fault. I was given one rule; dating wasn’t allowed for me. But how could I stop my heart from loving him?

My legs gave away and I dropped down. My boyfriend lay in a pool of blood with his eyes open.

 *****

Back to the present…

“What is a beautiful lady like you doing out here all alone?” A stoic voice came, making me return back to reality. I turned around, “Can’t a beautiful lady enjoy her alone time?” I replied. He was in his khaki shorts and a palm-printed shirt, which he left open, exposing his abs. And sunglasses.

“Nope. As long as men exist, women like you deserve all the attention.” He came closer and I let him in for a hug, smiling. “Chichi, dear, it’s been a while.” He added. We kissed on the cheeks before he pulled away and held my hand instead. “Leo,” I said.

“Honestly, what is wrong with you? Is the party not to your liking?” His eyebrows knitted. I shook my head and took another sip before replying. “It’s lovely. I was just admiring the beauty of Como. This place is wonderful.” We both turned back to the lake. “It is. But as you already know. I only give the best to my baby.” He expressed with his eyebrows wiggling.

I scoffed and finished the last sip. “Trust me, everybody and their mothers in Italy know. So where is she?” I asked. The empty bottle was just dangling in my hands, and I didn't know what to do with it. Leo whistled for a waiter. He came and took it for me. Thank God.

“My love is around here somewhere. Correcting someone, maybe just so the party wouldn’t suffer any problems. I don’t know.” He said as we both focused on the tempting waters. Waves rippled with powerful movements as the cruise sailed further, as if it were getting hypnotized and pulled by the enchanting lake.

“How is the new Project going? I hope you have reserved my pieces already, otherwise,” I said. Leo rubbed my back. “Relax, Chichi. You are my VVIP client. There is no way I wouldn’t keep your jewelry at bay before it is launched.” He assured me, and my heart rested on that. I loved my jewelry, and I loved it even more when they were custom-made. It gave me a sense of uniqueness.

“This simply isn’t done! Tell the Chef to re-cook the risotto. Go quickly. What are you waiting for, cute boy?” We both turned back at the sound of her.

“And there she is,” I said.

Viva ascended the stairs like the Queen that she was, with Carmelo holding her arm like her handsome knight in shining armour. She exchanged pleasantries with a couple of guests along the way until they were standing before us.

“Don’t tell me you’re still single.” That was the first thing she said to me. I sneered and held his man closer. “I think you forgot that I could get any man I want. You need to stop bragging.” Leo played along by intertwining our fingers. Carmelo’s eyes followed the gesture closely before looking away.