{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\uc1{\fonttbl{\f0\fcharset0 Times New Roman;}{\f1\fcharset0 Courier New;}{\f2\fcharset0 Arial;}}{\colortbl ;\red255\green0\blue0 ;\red0\green0 \blue255 ;}{\stylesheet{\s0\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\f0\lang2057 \fs20\kerning28 Normal;}}\paperw11905\paperh16836\margt1440\margl1800\margr1800\margb1440 \headery720\footery720\deftab720\pgnstart1\viewkind1\viewscale100\fet0{\*\docvar {ColorSet}{-1}}{\*\docvar{ColorPos}{-1}}{\*\docvar{StyleSet}{-1}}{\*\docvar{StylePos }{-1}}\pard\plain\pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747 \tx3663\tx4580\tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824 \tx13740\tx14655{\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28{\header\pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow \hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tqc\tx4152\tqr\tx8305\fs20\par}{\footer\pard\nowidctlpar \nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tqc\tx4152\tqr\tx8305\fs20\par}\{ASSM\} Queen Mary \{Esu Migabe\} (MF, ROM)\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 WARNING: This story will contain situations and explicit language\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 of an adult nature and should be read only by those of a legal\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 age to do so. If you are a minor or object to stories of an adult\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 nature, LEAVE HERE IMMEDIATELY. Legal age local to the author is\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 18+ please abide to your own local laws. Please note and\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 understand the content codes for this story.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 The characters portrayed in this story are just that , characters\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 in my story. Any similarities to real people are purely \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 coincidental and unintentional. The characters and situations\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 portrayed are pure fantasy; the author is keen to state that in\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 reality adult sexuality should remain only in the adult world.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 Please do not allow or cause this story to fall in to the hands\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 of minors.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 (C) Esu Migabe 2005\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\ul\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Introduction\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her mother was speaking at her again, frowning as she did so. \u8220\'93I don\u8217 \'92t understand you at all, a young lady in her prime of life and you ignore all the suitors that I introduce you to. You just seem to want to mix with the riff -raff of this country.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth sighed at her words; she had heard them all before. \u8216\'91Nobody understands me. What do riches in this world matter? I prefer friends for their own sake, not for what they can buy me.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Mother was continuing with her sermon. \u8220\'93We have decided to send you away for a short time. It will be a good opportunity for you to meet some nice young men. We have booked you a ticket on a new liner which is making her maiden voyage to a land overseas.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth looked at her in amazement. \u8220\'93Am I going to be chaperoned or will I be alone?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Good heavens my girl, this is costing your Father and I a great deal of money . You won\u8217\'92t need a chaperone on this trip as all the elite of British society will be there. They will take care of you and make sure that you behave with the social graces that you have been taught.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at her mother impishly, \u8220\'93Oh, and so where am I going?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her mother smiled back, unable to resist her daughter\u8217\'92s grin.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Your father and I have booked you a trip on a new luxury liner that is making her maiden voyage to America. You will be travelling on a new ship called \u8216 \'91RMS Queen Mary\u8217\'92 which is owned by the \u8216\'91Cunard White Star Company \u8217\'92. You are due to leave in two week\u8217\'92s time on May 27{\super th }, which is a Wednesday. Your Father will escort you down to the docks at Southampton and will see you safely aboard.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Mother continued, \u8220\'93We need to pack your trunk and make sure you have enough suitable attire for the coming voyage. We will go and visit the dressmaker\u8217\'92s later , once I have rested for a while.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth \u8217\'92s mother stood up and with a flourish, left the room.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled with delight. \u8216\'91At last, freedom! Time to do what I want to for a change. I will not be dictated to by my elders.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The morning of the voyage dawned and Elizabeth had travelled down to the docks with her father. All too soon for him, he was cuddling his daughter and wishing her well. He had a soft spot for her and her unladylike ways. He liked her impulsive streak which she often failed to control. He knew that it was one of his traits that he had passed onto her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Take care, my little one and behave yourself. Let your mother believe that you have turned over a new leaf and you have become a lady. Most of all have some fun .\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 With those parting words, he kissed her on her cheek and stood on the quay, waiting to wave her off on her great adventure.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\ul\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Departure\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth stood on the deck amazed at the sight on the quayside, the people gathered all around to wave the liner off on her inaugural passage. Flags and ribbons fluttering in the wind, all added to the joyful atmosphere of the occasion. A band marched along the seafront playing a rousing tune. She waved to her father as the ship hooters sounded and they finally departed from Southampton\u8217\'92s docks.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked at her watch, half past four, in four to five hours they would be docking at Cherbourg in France, before setting off again in the early hours of the following morning. She smiled at the people who were milling around her on the deck and nodded to those that smiled back. A young man approached her and introduced himself.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Good evening, my fair lady. Let me introduce myself, I am Richard, son of Lord Goldsworth. May I persuade you to partake in some refreshment in one of the fine bars aboard?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She giggled before introducing herself, \u8220\'93I am Elizabeth, daughter of Lord and Lady Saxonby. Yes, I would like some liquid nourishment, thank you, kind sir .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He took her arm and led her along the Promenade Deck to the Observation lounge and cocktail bar.{\b }She marvelled at the fine interior, the sparkling ornate lights bouncing their beams via the wooden walls. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Which refreshment can I get you? A fine tea or would you prefer a stronger beverage ?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93A small sherry would be just fine, thank you Richard.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He guided her to the lounge and sat down next to her as the attendant approached to serve them. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93A small Amontillado sherry for the lady and a whisky for me,\u8221\'94 he demanded abruptly. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth looked at him incredulously, deciding immediately that she didn\u8217\'92t like his abrasiveness. \u8216\'91I have no need for people like this,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself before smiling sympathetically at the attendant. \u8216\'91I will drink this with him, but that will be it. I will make my excuses and retire to my room.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She sat with him and made small talk while sipping her drink elegantly. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93What brings you here?\u8221\'94 He asked her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She replied, \u8220\'93My mother and father decided that I needed a rest from the countryside . The sea trip would be good for my well-being.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, have you been unwell, then?\u8221\'94 he replied. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh no, not me, I never get ill, this trip is for pleasure. My mother decided that a voyage like this would calm my erratic ways.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She suppressed her giggle which threatened to erupt, as she remembered the reason why she had been sent on the voyage. She took a final sip from her glass and made her excuses. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Forgive me Richard, but the festivities of the day have tired me. I need to retire to my cabin. I look forward to meeting you again soon.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She held out her hand. He rose to his feet and kissed her hand softly before bading her farewell. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I will look forward to it,\u8221\'94 was his reply.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As she passed through the lounge, she nodded and smiled at the attendant who had served them earlier. He bowed towards her, acknowledging her departure.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She rested in her cabin before the grand banquet which was going to be held that night to welcome all the guests on board. She thought about her parent\u8217\'92s marriage . Yes, her parents were happy but she didn\u8217\'92t want a life like her mother . She was determined that she wasn\u8217\'92t going to run a large household with dinner parties and everything that followed. She would much rather have a life that meant she could make something of herself and not just bow and make small talk to the upper classes. No, she wanted a life far removed from that of her parents .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 A loud whistle from the liner disturbed her from her thoughts. She realised that the ship was docking in Cherbourg. Glancing at her cabin clock, she noticed the time, ten to nine at night. \u8216\'91Had she only been on board for four and a half hours? It seemed such a long time ago, that she had waved her father goodbye .\u8217\'92 Elizabeth looked at her itinerary. The liner had anchored for a few hours and a grand dinner would be provided shortly. After that, they would be cruising throughout the night.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 A tap on the cabin door woke her from her thoughts.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Appetisers are now being served in the cocktail lounge. Dinner will be available in 45 minutes.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Thank you, I will be along shortly,\u8221\'94 she called out, before looking into her trunk for the evening gown that her mother had chosen for her to wear on her first night. She quickly discarded it to one side and pulled out one of her favourite ones instead. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\i\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She put it on quickly and smoothed it down over her hips before looking at her reflection in the full length mirror. She quickly brushed her hair and decided to leave it hanging loose over her shoulders. Her mother always liked her to pin it up but she wasn\u8217\'92t here to lecture her tonight.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled to herself. \u8216\'91You\u8217\'92ll do,\u8217\'92 and then opened her cabin door and made her way along to the cocktail lounge.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As she stood in the doorway, the attendant who had served her earlier came over. \u8220 \'93This way, madam,\u8221\'94 he said as he escorted her to one of the tables. \u8220\'93What can I get you to drink? A fine wine or would you prefer a fruit juice ?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, an orange juice please,\u8221\'94 she replied as she sat down. \u8220\'93 Certainly, madam,\u8221\'94 replied the attendant before he walked towards the bar .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Is this chair taken?\u8221\'94 A voice asked. She looked up at the stranger; his smiling face looked back at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No, I am unescorted tonight. Please, sit down,\u8221\'94 she replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The attendant returned with her drink and placed it on the table in front of her. \par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Anything else I can get you, madam?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked over at her new companion, \u8220\'93could I get you a drink?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93A glass of fine ale, thank you,\u8221\'94 he replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He sat down next to her, introducing himself as he did so. \u8220\'93My name is David , how do you do?\u8221\'94 She smiled back, \u8220\'93Very well thank you. I\u8217 \'92m Elizabeth,\u8221\'94 before she extended her hand, which he kissed lightly .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8216 \'91At least he hasn\u8217\'92t the airs and graces of Richard,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself. \u8216\'91He seems a lot more down to earth, much friendlier.\u8217 \'92 The attendant returned to their table with the ale. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Anything else I can get you, madam?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No, thank you,\u8221\'94 she replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 A gong sounded and a voice rang out throughout the lounge. \u8220\'93Ladies and Gentlemen , dinner is now served.\u8221\'94 David stood up from his seat and ushered her along the deck and down into the dining room. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth gasped with delight when she entered the room. She saw a giant map of the Atlantic Ocean on one of the walls. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93The sea looks so big, I never realised it before.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, it does,\u8221\'94 David replied. \u8220\'93But if you look closer, you can see where the liner is, and how much further we have to go.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, how clever.\u8221\'94 Elizabeth smiled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Could I have the pleasure of dining with you tonight?\u8221\'94 David asked her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Thank you. The pleasure is mine.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs18\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David pulled out a chair for her as they took their seats at one of the smaller dining tables. They sat talking to each other as they waited for the courses to be served . She found his company enjoyable and started telling him more about herself as the banquet progressed. He laughed at her tales and started telling her a few of his own. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She found herself telling David about Richard and his abrasive attitude to the workers on board. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I wouldn\u8217\'92t speak to anyone in that way, but the attendant didn\u8217 \'92t even seem to notice though.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, the attendant is probably well trained not to rise to the bait. They selected the crew very carefully for this voyage,\u8221\'94 replied David.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Well, I still thought he was very rude.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David nodded, \u8220\'93Yes, I\u8217\'92m afraid some people are nowadays.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As she sipped her coffee at the end of the meal, she looked at David and smiled at him. She was surprised how quickly the time had passed, \u8216\'91it must be because of David,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself. \u8216\'91I haven\u8217\'92t had such an enjoyable evening for a long time.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They left the dining room, arm in arm, and walked to her cabin. As they reached the door, a man stepped out of the shadows and spoke to her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Have you enjoyed your meal tonight? I am sorry that I could not escort you myself , but as you know, I was otherwise engaged.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth glanced at David, pleased that he was by her side.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Very much thank you. Please let me introduce you to my new companion, David. This is Richard. He was kind enough to buy me a drink just after we departed from Southampton.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David nodded towards Richard, \u8220\'93Pleased to meet you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard replied, \u8220\'93I\u8217\'92m grateful to you for looking after Elizabeth tonight . Tomorrow though, she will be dining with me.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth looked at Richard in amazement and found herself saying, \u8220\'93No Richard, you are wrong. I have already made my arrangements for dining tomorrow.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Well, change them,\u8221\'94 Richard replied curtly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt herself getting annoyed at Richard\u8217\'92s rudeness.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No, thank you but as I just said, my arrangements have already been made, Sir .\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David noticed the sharpness in her voice and took her arm. He looked at Richard, \u8220 \'93You heard Elizabeth, now leave her alone. Say goodnight to the lady.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard grunted his farewell and walked off moodily along the deck. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled at David, \u8220\'93Thank you, do you see what I mean about him?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David nodded. \u8220\'93Yes, a thoroughly unpleasant chap. Would you like me to see you safely to your cabin?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled as she replied, \u8220\'93Yes, please. I do feel a bit shaken.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David opened the cabin door for her and escorted her inside. She sat down in one of the chairs beckoning David to sit in the other. She still felt shaken by the rudeness and abruptness that Richard had shown towards her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I knew he was unpleasant, but he is even worse than I imagined.\u8221\'94 She stated.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I know, now are you feeling alright or would you like a small brandy to calm yourself?\u8221\'94 David enquired.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, I\u8217\'92ll be fine in a minute, thank you.\u8221\'94 She replied.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked and smiled at David, grateful that he had been there in her hour of need . The situation would have been a lot more difficult if she had been alone.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93In that case, I will take my leave. I\u8217\'92ll see you tomorrow at some point ?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He rose from his seat and kissed her lightly on her forehead, \u8220\'93\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Bye Elizabeth, take care.\u8221\'94 He closed the cabin door quietly behind him. She quickly rose from her seat, removed her clothes and made her preparations for bed . \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The liner\u8217\'92s whistle\u8217\'92s sounded; the adventure to New York had begun . It has been a long day, she thought to herself. She laid her head on her pillow and thought through the events of her day. She wondered about the two men she had met and knew which one she preferred. She hoped that Richard was not going to cause her any trouble; he seemed such a pompous one. David, on the other hand, seemed a lot friendlier. A much more likeable man.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt tired but her sexual feelings were aroused. Her fingers stroked along her body. As she stroked her bosom, she felt her nipples harden. Soft strokes along them aroused her feelings even more. She sighed and moved her hands along and down her body. Caressing and touching herself. Wondering how David would touch her. How would she feel? Would he arouse her? Her fingers stroking her stomach and then her inner thighs. Feeling her tender spot before succumbing to her desires. \par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her thoughts drifting... Imagining. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 A yawn. Soon she was fast asleep{\fs22 . }Deep inside her dreams.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li360{\f2\lang2057\fs22\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs22\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\ul\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Exploration\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The next morning she rose from her slumber early, excited thoughts running through her mind. She sung to herself as she pulled out a skirt and blouse from her trunk . She washed herself quickly and hurriedly dressed before leaving her cabin. She made her way up to the Promenade deck, smiling and nodding at people who acknowledged her presence. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She recalled her thoughts from the night before and sighed. \u8216\'91Was that the reason why she had been sent on this voyage? Was her Mother trying to find her an eligible suitor?\u8217\'92 She wasn\u8217\'92t sure if that was what her Mother had been planning. Elizabeth sighed, \u8216\'91Well, it won\u8217\'92t work. I am not looking for a husband yet.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth,\u8221\'94 she heard someone calling her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked around and saw Richard walking towards her. She sighed as he approached, and then rebuked herself, \u8216\'91I was a bit hasty towards him last night, I shouldn\u8217\'92t have been so rude with him.\u8217\'92 He smiled at her, \u8220 \'93I apologise for my behaviour last night, I shouldn\u8217\'92t have startled you. Can I accompany you to dinner tonight or tomorrow to make up for my tardiness ?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at him, still unsure about his motives, \u8220\'93Apology accepted, Richard . I am sorry but I won\u8217\'92t be able to accept your invitation tonight. I have a prior engagement.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard nodded at her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Perhaps we can meet up for a drink later in the bar then.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth smiled at him politely.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Sorry, got to rush, see you later.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She watched in amazement as he quickly disappeared, leapfrogging the railing before running back along the deck.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8216 \'91He must be in a hurry,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She strolled along a bit further, before deciding to relax for a while on the Sun Deck . She made her way up the stairs and sat down in one of the deck chairs. She lazed back into it and as she felt the sunshine beam down on her face, closed her eyes . Her thoughts started to drift again.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Hello.\u8221\'94 A voice jolted her back into reality. She opened her eyes slowly to see David gazing down at her. She smiled back at him. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Hello David, it\u8217\'92s nice to see you.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s good to see you as well,\u8221\'94 he replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She glanced at her watch. \u8220\'93Goodness, is that the time? I have been out in the sun for far too long. Would you like to accompany me to the bar? David.\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, certainly, Elizabeth, then I can return the drink which you so kindly got for me yesterday.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She rose from her deck chair and they walked down the stairs back to the Promenade deck. As they entered the bar, Elizabeth was surprised to see how lively it was. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s only late morning,\u8221\'94 she whispered to David, \u8220\'93 Do these people party all day?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It seems that way,\u8221\'94 David replied, \u8220\'93But remember, it is a celebratory voyage as well.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 An attendant approached to serve them. She smiled at him and asked for a small white wine, David requested an ale. While the attendant was serving their drinks, Elizabeth studied David\u8217\'92s face. He was certainly good looking and she was attracted to his personality. He made her relax and she certainly didn\u8217\'92t do that with most of the men that her mother thought were possible suitors.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She sipped her drink slowly as she started to tell David more about her life at home . David smiled in sympathy as she recounted tales of her mother\u8217\'92s efforts to make her more ladylike. He laughed when she told him of her attempts to act like one; she always failed, unable to reach the heights her mother desired. \par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Would you like another glass of wine?\u8221\'94 David enquired.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes please, after all as you said earlier, we are here to enjoy ourselves,\u8221 \'94 Elizabeth smiled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David smiled back at her, \u8220\'93That\u8217\'92s the idea,\u8221\'94 he said as he placed his arm around her and hugged her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 A loud roar of laughter erupted from the other side of the room. Elizabeth looked over and was amazed to see the raunchy antics of a couple dancing together. They were touching each other intimately. Elizabeth laughed, before commenting to David , \u8220\'93Perhaps my mother had the wrong idea about this trip, if anything, it \u8217\'92s making me more daring than I was.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They finished their drinks and David asked her if she wanted another. She giggled, \u8220 \'93I think that I have had more than enough for a while, thank you,\u8221\'94 before asking mischievously \u8220\'93Would you like to join me for my afternoon nap?\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David looked at her and grinned, \u8220\'93Yes, it would be good to relax my eyes for a while.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They rose from their chairs and departed from the bar. Laughing and talking, they made their way back to her cabin. She opened the door and he escorted her inside, closing the door behind him. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She held him tightly as he smiled at her before pulling her into a loving embrace. His fingers traced along her face, stroking and touching, before kissing her passionately . She responded eagerly as she felt her heartbeats quicken.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He led her to her bed, and started to unbutton her blouse. She responded by taking off his shirt. He slipped off her bra, before unbuttoning her skirt. She reached for his waist and slowly unbuttoned his trousers, letting them fall to the floor . Her fingers stroked along his legs, touching him, feeling him. He lifted her up and laid her down gently. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She gasped with pleasure as she felt his lips on her tender nipples. His tongue stroked down and along her body, kissing and caressing her. She shivered in anticipation of his lovemaking. \u8216\'91Will it be as good as I have imagined?\u8217\'92\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt her desire building. Her heart beating faster. Her breathes increasing, \par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt his hardness press against her lips. Pulsing and pushing inside her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Feeling him deep. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Deeper . \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Ohhhhhhh,\u8221\'94 she gasped... \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 His thrusting, faster and harder, sent sensations throughout her body. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She was delirious as his passion gripped her and swam through her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He held her tight as he gave a final push. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Both exhausted, they lay together, smiling, as their bodies recovered.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth spoke first, \u8220\'93That was something I have never experienced before," she smiled, \u8220\'93it was really good.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m glad you enjoyed it, it was good for me as well.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They lay together for a few more minutes before Elizabeth smiled. \u8220\'93I think my afternoon naps have just improved for the better.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David laughed before looking at his watch, \u8220\'93Dinner will be ready soon, perhaps we should prepare for it. Would you like me to help you get ready?\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled, \u8220\'93Of course. You can choose my gown if you like.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David smiled. \u8220\'93Oh, that\u8217\'92s your choice; I\u8217\'92ll just help to put it on you. Do up the buttons.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They both laughed, sharing their private joke.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth quickly pulled out one of her gowns, \u8220\'93Do you like this one?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He smiled, \u8220\'93Yes, of course.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93That\u8217\'92s the one it will be then. Let me just refresh myself and then I\u8217\'92ll put it on.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After washing herself, she slipped into the gown, \u8220\'93David, can you just do up those small buttons on my back?\u8221\'94 She giggled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Certainly, my lady.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Once she was ready, they departed from her cabin and made their way along to the dining room.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs22\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As David escorted her back to her cabin after the meal, she felt sure that someone was watching her. She dismissed her thoughts, scolding herself for being so silly .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They entered her cabin and David smiled at her before he kissed her passionately. She responded to his touch, caressing his shoulders and stroking his back. Smiling, she stood in front of him, turned around and asked him to undo the buttons which he had fastened earlier. Afterwards, she let the gown slip off her into a heap on the floor.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David gazed at her. Her sylph-like body aroused him beyond his wildest expectations. He quickly removed his clothes before he knelt down in front of her and started to kiss her ankles. He kissed her up to the top of her legs, over her pants and up her body. His lips touched hers again in another passionate embrace.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 His fingers reached around her and undid the clasps on her bra. Massaging and stroking her back, before she felt him removing her pants. She moaned, her passion acknowledging his touch in her most intimate places. She stroked and kissed his nipples, as her fingers ran along his spine. He felt her response and touched her lips lightly, before laying her down on the bed.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her legs widened, before she wrapped one around his. She felt his manhood brushing against her lips. Her moisture flowed when she felt him stiffen, her muscles stretching to greet him. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 His fingers reached down and stroked her slowly, feeling her moisture which he gathered on his fingers and spread along her. His fingers gently touched her clitoris sending spasms of erotic pleasure through her body.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She moaned with pleasure, \u8220\'93Now!\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David hearing her, started to enter her gently. Her muscles tightened around him as he did. He waited, before touching her clitoris again. She relaxed and he pushed further inside her. This time, she did not stiffen but rose up to him, taking him fully .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 His passion took hold of him as he felt her deep rhythmic sensations; her passion took over as she felt his responses. Their bodies locked together as their climaxes erupted together.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As their passions subsided, they lay together in each others arms. David held her gently while she fell asleep. He looked at her and saw the smile on her lips. He quietly left her cabin.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\ul\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Secrets\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth woke up late, still dreaming of the events from the day before. She hugged herself tightly as she remembered their passionate love-making. She rose slowly as her thoughts turned to her mother. \u8216\'91Oh no, my mother. What will she say if she finds out? She has always preached about keeping myself until my wedding night .\u8217\'92 Disjointed thoughts tumbled through her mind. \u8216\'91Would my future husband be able to tell that I\u8217\'92m not a virgin any more? Is there any way they could find out?\u8217\'92 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her thoughts returned to her night of passion. \u8216\'91That was so good; I don\u8217 \'92t care what mother thinks. I enjoyed it, I have grown up. I can now live my life as I wish, hopefully with a man like David by my side.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She suddenly noticed that the liner seemed to be moving slowly and left her cabin to enquire why. Her question was soon answered when she stepped out onto the deck and saw the thick, dense fog surrounding it.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Looking around, she noticed Richard standing at the end of corridor. She smiled and waved to him cheerfully. To her surprise, he just nodded at her and then turned and sprinted off around the corner. She wondered, \u8216\'91Was he watching me? I always see him just lately.\u8217\'92 Dismissing her thoughts as absurd, she returned to her cabin.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Mid -morning, Elizabeth visited the library and looked through the display of the latest magazines on the large table in the centre of the room. \u8216\'91The fog will probably clear later. In the meantime, I\u8217\'92ll catch up with the news.\u8217 \'92 She selected one of the journals and went to sit down on one of the comfortable chairs. She read the latest society gossip, looked at the fashion pages, and then studied the articles.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Have you got time for that drink now?\u8221\'94 A voice enquired. She looked up to see Richard standing in front of her. She nodded and rose from her chair as he took her arm and led her out of the library.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They walked along the deck and into the noisy cocktail lounge. Elizabeth still couldn \u8217\'92t believe how busy the place was; it never seemed to matter whether it was night or day.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93What would you like to drink today?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s a bit early in the day for wine,\u8221\'94 she replied, \u8220 \'93so I think I would like a natural juice, orange would be just fine.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Are you sure? Time here doesn\u8217\'92t matter. The days and nights all roll into one. Can\u8217\'92t I tempt you into something stronger?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No thank you. I have to call my mother later and I will need to be fully aware of her questioning.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard smiled. \u8220\'93My mother is also that way inclined.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He called over an attendant, \u8220\'93An orange juice for the lady and a whisky for myself.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Certainly Sir,\u8221\'94 the attendant replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard lounged back in his chair and looked at Elizabeth.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93How are you enjoying the cruise?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s wonderful. I\u8217\'92m having a lovely time.\u8221\'94 She replied .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The attendant served their drinks, \u8220\'93Will that be all, Sir?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard replied, \u8220\'93Yes,\u8221\'94 without taking his eyes off of Elizabeth.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Tell me about your family. Your father is a Lord like mine isn\u8217\'92t he ? You told me that when we first met.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth replied. \u8220\'93Yes, I\u8217\'92m sorry, but I have not heard of your father . Where does he come from?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93The east side of the country, Cambridge, near to the fens. And you, your good self?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, l live just outside London, in Windsor.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard nodded before he carried on.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93We have a large family residence in Grantchester, a few miles from the centre of Cambridge. My father is elderly now and I am the sole inheritor of the estate .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth nodded as he continued.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93The main hall in the residence is huge; I am looking forward to the banquets that I will be hosting there soon.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He continued to talk about himself as her thoughts started to wander. She decided he was a bore, talking incessantly about himself and his life. \u8216\'91I should have followed my initial instincts,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth sipped her drink slowly, nodding politely at certain intervals and agreeing with him, when he paused for breath.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She finally drained her glass and made her excuses to leave.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Stay, have another,\u8221\'94 he urged her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She shook her head. \u8220\'93Sorry, but duty calls, I must telephone my mother.\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled politely. \u8220\'93Thank you for the drink. I\u8217\'92ll see you later .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Richard replied, \u8220\'93Yes, I will look forward to it. Good bye for now.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth sat in her cabin and looked at the telephone. Would it really work? She felt a long way from home and she didn\u8217\'92t really believe that a telephone could connect her with her parents over all those miles. She had promised her mother that she would call her at some point and today seemed a good enough day as any, to make that call. She checked her watch. \u8216\'91Late afternoon in England. I\u8217\'92ll make it and see if it works.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She lifted the receiver and after a few seconds was connected to one of the ship\u8217 \'92s telephone operator\u8217\'92s.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Good morning, which number do you require?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth replied, \u8220\'93England, Windsor, 294, please.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The operator replied, \u8220\'93One moment please.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The phone made a number of clicks before it started to ring. Shortly afterwards, the ringing stopped and a voice answered, \u8220\'93Windsor 294, the Saxonby residence . How can I help you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She replied, \u8220\'93Hello Mary, it\u8217\'92s Elizabeth here. May I speak to my mother please, if she is available?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 While Elizabeth was waiting for her mother to come to the phone, she marvelled at this latest piece of technology. She was hundreds of miles away from home, in the middle of the sea, but still able to speak to her parent\u8217\'92s as if they were in the same room.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Hello, Elizabeth and how are you? I trust you are behaving yourself.\u8221\'94 The line crackled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled to herself before replying, \u8220\'93Of course, Mother. I am fine and yourself ?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, life is much the same here. Nothing unusual, except of course, we are missing you. Have you met any eligible suitors that I would approve of yet? Lady Goldsmith was asking me the same question earlier.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth was bemused by her questioning. \u8216\'91Nothing ever changes, she still wants me to settle down.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, Mother, is that all you ever think and talk about?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I only want the best for you, Elizabeth. You should know that.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, Mother. Is Father at home?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93He\u8217\'92s away today, watching the horse racing, I think he said.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, as usual then. I had better go Mother, see you soon. Give my regards to my father please, when he returns.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Of course, Elizabeth, see you soon. Take care.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth replaced the receiver and decided that she had got off lightly from her questioning . She knew that Richard would charm her mother totally and gave an involuntary shudder. She wasn\u8217\'92t sure what she would think of David, though. He hadn \u8217\'92t told her much about his background. Not enough to impress her mother anyway.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Later in the afternoon, as she sat on the Sun Deck waiting for David to join her, a sudden commotion broke out. Someone ran along the deck, fiercely pursued by three of the liner\u8217\'92s crew. The man stumbled and fell. One of the crew held the man down while another pulled his arms back and handcuffed him around his wrists. He was then pulled to his feet and led away. She wondered where they were taking him .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 At that moment, David appeared. Her heart started to beat faster, as he approached her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93What was that all about?\u8221\'94 he asked. She explained to him what she had just seen.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Ah, it sounds like a stowaway was caught,\u8221\'94 he said.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, where would they take him? What would they do with him?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93There will be somewhere on the liner to put him. Maybe they will make him work for the rest of the journey and then when we reach America, he will be handed over to the police.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth nodded.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David pulled his deck chair close to hers before he settled down into it. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93How are you today, Elizabeth? Feeling tired after yesterday?\u8221\'94 He grinned at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at back at him. \u8220\'93No. Why? Are you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She laughed.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He reached out with his fingers and gently stroked her hair before he leant forward and kissed her lightly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s good to see you,\u8221\'94 he whispered in her ear.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They continued to lounge in their deck chairs.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Are you hungry?\u8221\'94 Would you like to go for something to eat?\u8221\'94 David asked.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It will be dinner in two hours.\u8221\'94 She replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, but if we eat now, we can miss the dinner tonight and I can have you all to myself.\u8221\'94 He smiled at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her heart started to beat wildly as she realised he wanted her, just as much as she wanted him.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They entered the Verandah Grill and Elizabeth gasped in awe as she saw the paintings which were displayed on the walls. Pantomime and theatre scenes framed with columns of silver and gold. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, what beautiful pictures.\u8221\'94 She murmured to David. He agreed with her, \u8220\'93They are all painted by the same artist as well.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They sat at a table by one of the walls and waited to be served. Almost immediately, the wine waiter came over with a selection of wines. David selected a deep red one which the waiter poured for them. Elizabeth smiled as she took a sip from her glass . \u8220\'93Oh, that\u8217\'92s really nice.\u8221\'94 The waiter nodded to her before another waiter came over with the menu.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth chose a dish of chicken while David opted for the steak. They enjoyed their quiet dinner together, sharing intimacies before departing for Elizabeth\u8217\'92s cabin . \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Once inside, David cupped her face with his hands and gently kissed her. His fingers ran along her body sensually and provocatively as he started to remove her clothes . She unbuttoned his shirt, kissing his nipples in turn. Her hands reached down to his waist before removing his trousers. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She shivered with pleasure when he kissed her ankles. His tongue licked and stroked her up along her legs before showering them with small, delicate kisses. His mouth caressing as he tasted her inner thighs. She sighed with pleasure when she felt his hot breath on her womanhood, moaning deeply when he kissed it.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 His tongue caressed her soft lips, probing gently as he licked along them. She was experiencing deep erotic sensations that she had never known before. Her inner muscles tightened and relaxed frantically as she felt his tongue touch her more intimately that she had ever been touched before.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He sucked her lips gently before his tongue tasted her opening. She groaned as she felt the heat rise up inside her. She had never experienced feelings like this before. She felt his tongue deeper and deeper inside her till she could stand it no more. Her body seemed to freeze for an instant before exploding into her deep orgasmic climax.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Ohhh, my love.\u8221\'94 She groaned breathlessly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He rolled her over and lay underneath her. She felt his hard penis pushing against her entrance. She kissed him passionately before guiding him in. Her muscles pulsated around him, sending spasms and {\lang1033 deep }erotic sensations along his length .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He moaned as his thrusting became faster and harder. He was no longer in control of his own body as his desire and passion peaked. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They recovered in each others arms before Elizabeth fell asleep. David gently detached himself from her before giving her a light kiss and departing to his cabin.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs22\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Realisation \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth woke early. She rose from her bed singing to herself. She felt so good, \u8216\'91 I\u8217\'92m in love.\u8217\'92 She made her way to the bathroom where she washed and dressed before going down to the restaurant for breakfast. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As she entered the room, a steward rushed up to seat her. \u8220\'93A gentleman requests the pleasure of your company this morning; would you like to eat with him?\u8221 \'94 She looked over to where the steward was pointing and saw David, smiling at her. \u8220\'93Of course,\u8221\'94 she said to the steward who promptly escorted her to David\u8217\'92s table. He rose to greet her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m pleased that you could join me.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David smiled at her. She returned his smile, as the waiter served her with a juice and a selection of fruit. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Do you like to swim?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She thanked the steward before replying to David. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes,\u8221\'94 she laughed, \u8220\'93but in a pool, not in that great expanse of water outside the liner.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He grinned at her as he replied, \u8220\'93silly, I meant in the pool on board, as well you know. Would you like to join me when I go swimming after breakfast then ?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, please,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After finishing their breakfast, they went back to their cabins to retrieve their swimming garments. Elizabeth then put her robe on over her costume, picked up a towel and a new dress before making her way down the stairs to the swimming pool. David was already waiting for her at the entrance. He took her arm as they entered the room .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She stopped in the entrance and gazed in amazement at the mother-of-pearl ceiling. As she walked along the balcony and down the steps to the pool, she paused again to look at the fine shimmer it emitted throughout the room.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93This liner is so beautiful, David.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I totally agree with you, Elizabeth. This is becoming an amazing voyage.\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They sought out the dressing boxes to leave their attire in before returning to the water\u8217\'92s edge.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 At the poolside, Elizabeth gracefully lowered herself into the water while David jumped in off the side. They swam together, splashed and teased each other for a time, before another couple came down to the pool.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Hello. Is the water warm?\u8221\'94 the lady asked.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth replied. \u8220\'93It\u8217\'92s wonderful.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David and she swam for a few more lengths before getting out of the pool. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Do you wish to use the Turkish bath now or do you just want to get changed?\u8221 \'94 David asked her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled, \u8220\'93I think I will save that experience for another day. I am feeling slightly exhausted now.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They showered separately before entering their individual dressing boxes to put on their more formal attire.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Well, Elizabeth, that was a nice morning. I am sorry but I must leave you now . I have a few things to arrange.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled, \u8220\'93I am feeling tired anyway. I think I would like a short rest before I do anything else.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David nodded, \u8220\'93I will see you later. Take care for now. Goodbye.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled as he kissed her lightly, \u8220\'93Goodbye. You take care as well.\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth went back to her cabin, slipped out of her dress and lay down on her bed, resting her eyes.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She woke up with a start. Someone was shouting, creating a commotion, out in the corridor . \u8220\'93Elizabeth. Elizabeth, let me in.\u8221\'94 Her cabin door handle rattled franticly. She recognised Richard\u8217\'92s voice immediately. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She quickly pulled on her dressing gown and opened the door.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93What\u8217\'92s the matter, Richard?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She gasped in amazement at the sight of him. His flushed face was dripping with sweat . She noticed his tired, bloodshot eyes just staring at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Are you ill?\u8221\'94 She enquired.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93N\u8230\'85 N\u8230\'85 No, I just need to get out of the way for a while. They won\u8217\'92t think of looking for me here,\u8221\'94 he stuttered.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Who, Richard? Who is after you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Another guest. I won too much of his money at a poker game last night. Today , he wants it back.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at him with sympathy. \u8220\'93That\u8217\'92s bad. He shouldn\u8217\'92 t have gambled with it if he can\u8217\'92t afford to lose it.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Suddenly Richard reached out and grasped her firmly. He forced his mouth down onto hers, kissing her fiercely. His hands moved to the opening of her gown and he slipped it off her shoulders, before attempting to tear her brassiere off of her. She panicked , unable to believe what he was attempting to do. Remembering her lessons, she quickly raised her knee and thumped it against his testicles. She felt his grip loosen. Her hand rose up and she slapped him around his face, before running to the door and out into the corridor.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93You bitch!\u8221\'94 His voice rang out. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 In her hurry to escape from him, she clattered into a lady walking along the hall with her escort. Elizabeth mumbled her apologies before the gentleman, noticing her dishevelled state, asked her, \u8220\'93What\u8217\'92s the matter? What has happened? Are you all right?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She sobbed, \u8220\'93No. He attacked me. It could have been even worse.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The gentleman removed his jacket which he passed to her. Elizabeth, suddenly realising she was naked apart from her torn brassiere and pants accepted it gratefully. She slipped it on.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The lady put a protective arm around her and led her along the deck to the protection of{\cf1 }her own cabin, while the gentleman called over a steward to accompany him into Elizabeth\u8217\'92s.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The lady sat her down before bringing her a small glass of brandy and a blanket to wrap herself in. Elizabeth slipped out of the jacket and wrapped herself in the offered blanket.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Here, drink this; it will calm your nerves. Allow me to introduce myself, I\u8217 \'92m Victoria.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She gave Elizabeth a handkerchief to wipe away her tears. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Now, do you want to tell me what happened, or can I call on someone else to comfort you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth accepted her kindness gratefully. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m Elizabeth. This is my first voyage overseas without my parents. \u8221\'94 She sniffed before continuing. \u8220\'93Oh, can you find David for me ? He is a good friend of mine.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93David? Do you know his surname? There must be a few David\u8217\'92s on board .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth sighed, \u8220\'93No, I only know him as David. He comes from England. Kent, I seem to remember he said.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She described him a bit more before Victoria clapped her hands to her mouth, \u8220 \'93I know who you mean, yes, he always introduces himself as David, to stop the hangers-on. I will send for him.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She lifted the telephone receiver and spoke into it quietly before replacing it back into its socket. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93That\u8217\'92s done. Someone is looking for him. He will be along shortly.\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 At that moment Victoria\u8217\'92s escort returned. She introduced him to Elizabeth . \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth, this is Robert, my husband.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m very pleased to meet you, Robert. Thank you so much for helping me in my hour of need.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93They have him in custody in the hold. It seems you had a lucky escape,\u8221 \'94 he said, looking at Elizabeth. \u8220\'93It turns out he is a cad, always on the lookout for the rich ladies, hoping to impress them and worm his way into their affections. All he wanted was your virtue and money. He thought that you were the answer to all of his problems.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93He was always hanging around. Whenever I was alone, he always seemed to be watching me. But at times, he would disappear rather quickly,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth replied .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 There was a knock at the door. David rushed in. His face etched with worry. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth, my darling, are you all right?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He took her into his arms and held her close. Her heart leapt with the knowledge that he cared about her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Robert waited until their embrace was over before continuing.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93He is a stowaway, a fraud. He hadn\u8217\'92t paid for his ticket and was never likely to get one but he still wanted to take a full part in life aboard. The sheer audacity of the chap.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93So, that was why he kept disappearing,\u8221\'94 murmured Elizabeth. \u8220\'93 He didn\u8217\'92t want to be discovered. I have never heard of his Father, Lord Goldsworth, either. Have you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93The name means nothing to me,\u8221\'94 David replied. \u8220\'93Where is his home?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Near Cambridge, he said.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David nodded before he kissed her gently. \u8220\'93Are you able to return to your cabin , or would you like to come to mine?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked at him and smiled through her tears. \u8220\'93Yours, please, I\u8217\'92 m not sure that I can go back to mine at present.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David wanted to protect her. He wanted her to feel safe and not suffer any more anguish .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Tell me what you need from yours, and I will fetch it. Stay with me for the rest of the evening and tonight. Let me comfort you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Victoria and Robert exchanged glances. Victoria spoke, \u8220\'93Is that a good idea? I am sure that if we need to, we could find Elizabeth some alternative accommodation .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No that\u8217\'92s fine,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth smiled. \u8220\'93David is a good friend; I know that he will help me.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David replied, \u8220\'93Yes, you can be sure that I will take good care of her. Thank you both for your help.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth nodded at the couple, \u8220\'93Thank you for everything. I have taken up enough of your time. Enjoy the rest of your cruise.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They smiled at her before Victoria replied, \u8220\'93You know us, now. If there is anything you need, just let us know. Take care.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth replied, \u8220\'93Thank you. Goodbye for now.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Goodbye.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David put a protective arm around her as he guided her out of the cabin and towards his .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 When David sat her down in one of his chairs, he felt her shiver.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Are you still cold?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93No, just realising how lucky I have been.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Would you like some tea or would you prefer something stronger?\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Tea would be good, thank you. I had a brandy earlier.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He returned with a cup of hot tea which she sipped gratefully. She was still shaken but felt safe with David for company. She yawned. Suddenly she felt very tired. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Come on, Elizabeth, you have had a frightening time. Why not get some rest?\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She nodded her head, \u8220\'93Perhaps you are right.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Let\u8217\'92s get you rested.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Thank you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David let her sleep in his bed while he comforted her, stroking her head tenderly throughout the night. When she suffered flashbacks, he was there, caring for her. Finally, when he saw her slip into a deep contented sleep, he retired to his chair.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The awakening\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth woke early the next morning. She looked around at her surroundings and was bewildered for a moment, before she suddenly recalled the events of the day before. Then she noticed David still sleeping in the chair. \u8216\'91My love. Thank you so much for taking care of me.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She rose from his bed and kissed him lightly on his forehead. He woke immediately.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth, how are you feeling? I hope you slept well after your nasty experience .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled. \u8220\'93Better than I could have hoped for. Thank you so much.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Good. I\u8217\'92m pleased to hear it. I have some news for you. One of my friends back in England has been checking out Richard\u8217\'92s story. I\u8217\'92m afraid Robert was totally right about him. He is a fraud. There is no Lord Goldsworth. No house owned under that name in Grantchester either.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth gasped, \u8220\'93So, who is he then?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh, just some low-life commoner that believes he can swindle anyone he meets . He was very interested in you, though. He thought you were na\u239\'efve and he would be able to impress you with his stories.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth retorted, \u8220\'93I hope he\u8217\'92s locked away and not able to do it again for a long time.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh he will be, my love. The police will be waiting for him in Southampton on the return leg of this voyage. Until then, he\u8217\'92s locked in the cells down below.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She sighed with relief.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I took the liberty of entering your cabin last night and returned here with some of your clothes.\u8221\'94 David said. \u8220\'93I have laid them out for you in the bathroom.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Thank you, David. I am most grateful.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth entered his bathroom and washed herself before putting on one of her lightweight summer dresses.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Let\u8217\'92s take a stroll along the deck before breakfast,\u8221\'94 David suggested. \u8220\'93It\u8217\'92s a nice, warm morning outside. We must be nearing America.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93That sounds good,\u8221\'94 replied Elizabeth, \u8220\'93then we\u8217\'92ll have some breakfast in the dining room. We could look at the map on the wall and see how much longer we will be able to enjoy each others company.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She sighed to herself as she thought about their future together. \u8216\'91I hope that\u8217\'92s not going to be the end of our liaison. Surely we will continue to remain good friends once the cruise is over. Could I even dare to dream of more than that?\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David took her arm and escorted her out of his cabin.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93What are your plans in New York?\u8221\'94 he asked.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m staying with some friends of my parents in Staten Island for a few days and will then be returning to England. What about yours?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I will be working in the city for the week,\u8221\'94 he replied, smiling at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth was about to ask him if they could meet up for an evening when a steward called out to them. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Sir David, Madam Elizabeth.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He rushed up to them. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93The Captain has heard about what happened, your unfortunate incident, Madam. He sends an invitation for both of you to dine at his table tonight.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth looked at David and nodded her head.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Tell the Captain that we are very pleased to accept his kind invitation,\u8221 \'94 David replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I will let him know of your acceptance.\u8221\'94 The steward nodded before departing.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They carried on with their stroll along the Promenade deck when Elizabeth noticed a poster outside the ballroom. They wandered over to read it. \u8216\'91Tea Dance. This afternoon at three o\u8217\'92clock.\u8217\'92\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93David, I would like to take part in that.\u8221\'94 She exclaimed, \u8220\'93 I have never been to one. Have you?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93One or two in my past, but they are not something I frequent a lot.\u8221\'94 David smiled at her. \u8220\'93But here\u8217\'92s your chance. Elizabeth, would you give me the pleasure of your company at the tea dance this afternoon?\u8221 \'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled back at him. \u8220\'93Thank you, kind Sir; I accept your invitation with delight.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After their late breakfast, they went back to Elizabeth\u8217\'92s cabin to choose her outfit for the dance that afternoon. She didn\u8217\'92t really want to enter it , but she knew she must. \u8216\'91I\u8217\'92m not going to run away from everything in life that scares me,\u8217\'92 she thought to herself. Her body slightly shook as she retrieved the key from her bag. David, sensing her nervousness, stepped in front of her and unlocked the door. He entered her cabin, checking that all was well, before encouraging her inside. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Come on, Elizabeth. I thought you said you wanted to choose your clothes for the dance.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David settled back on her bed as she walked to her wardrobe. She sorted through the hangers before making up her mind. She picked out a shorter knee-length flared dress to wear. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93What do you think of this one, David?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, I like it,\u8221\'94 he replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93That\u8217\'92s the one that I will wear then.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth went to kiss David, but as she did so, she suddenly froze and shivered as memories came flooding back into her mind. She stopped. David looked at her and sensed her fear. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Do you want to remain here or shall we return to my cabin?\u8221\'94 he asked her tenderly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m fine. I need to get over that irrational fear and I won\u8217\'92 t if I keep running away from it.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She kissed him slowly. David responded carefully, kissing her gently until he felt her body relax. His arms encircled her body as he pulled her closer.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh Elizabeth, my love. Never in a million years would I hurt you. I hope you realise that by now.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled. \u8220\'93I know that. You have behaved like a gentleman from the first time I met you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He settled her down on her bed before sitting beside her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Any time I\u8217\'92m going too fast for you, just tell me and I\u8217\'92ll stop.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93That won\u8217\'92t be necessary, David. You are a totally different man from that animal.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David \u8217\'92s fingers stroked her body tenderly as they lay together, relaxing in each others arms before the dance later that day. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * *\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They entered the ballroom, arm in arm for the tea dance. Stewards surrounded the tables all carrying teapots. As they sat down at one of the empty tables, a steward came over and asked \u8220\'93Which type of tea would you prefer, China, Indian or one of the more selective brews?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93China tea sounds good enough for me,\u8221\'94 she answered.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93I would like some Indian please,\u8221\'94 David said. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth and David studied the menu.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93David, would you like some sandwiches?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He smiled at her. \u8220\'93Yes, beef ones, please.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93Oh and some cucumber sandwiches as well, please,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth said to the steward.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \u8220\'93Certainly, Sir, madam.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The steward bowed his head before departing to fetch their requests.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After finishing their sandwiches and one of the small cakes which the steward had bought on his return, Elizabeth watched as the dancers swirled on the raised, parquet floor. When the band started to play a rousing rumba tune, David asked her, \u8220 \'93Shall we dance?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\li27{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled. \u8220\'93Yes, please.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David led her out onto the dance floor, and to Elizabeth\u8217\'92s amazement, danced perfectly, matching her steps with his. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93How did you learn to dance like that? I have never danced with anyone that knows the moves like you do,\u8221\'94 she said in amazement.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93My mother always said a man should dance properly, so she made me have lessons for a few years.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After a few more dances, David led her off the floor.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Did you enjoy that?\u8221\'94 he asked her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, of course I did. I\u8217\'92m still amazed at how well you dance; you nearly put me to shame.\u8221\'94 She smiled at him.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Never, Elizabeth.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 They went back to David\u8217\'92s cabin, resting together before the captain\u8217\'92 s dinner.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt his body against hers as he pulled her closer to him. As his lips stroked against hers, before kissing her slowly, she felt her desire for him rise in her body. She reached out to him and started to unbutton his shirt.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth, are you sure this is want you want? I don\u8217\'92t want to hurt you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I have never been surer of anything in my life, David.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She stroked his chest with her fingertips, caressing his nipples, before kissing them . She removed his shirt completely before struggling with the belt on his trousers . She groaned with frustration at her clumsiness. David chuckled before helping her undo it. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She removed his trousers, sliding them down his legs. Her fingertips tracing slowly back up along them. Caressing his inner thighs, she reached down and kissed him softly on his penis. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her tongue tasted him. Her desire increased. Her breaths got faster. Her passion rose . She groaned with pleasure.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Ohhh, David.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Afterwards , David looked at her and she knew then that he could sense how happy she felt.\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Elizabeth, my love, there is something I have to tell you about me. I\u8217\'92 m not sure that you are going to like it, though.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She wondered for a minute what awful tale he was going to tell her. \u8216\'91Is he going to admit to being a criminal, as well? No, he couldn\u8217\'92t be.\u8217 \'92 Then she remembered that look from Victoria when she had described him. \u8216 \'91She had known who he was. Perhaps he was a celebrity of some sort.\u8217\'92 She hadn\u8217\'92t seen many stage shows or films, so she wouldn\u8217\'92t know .\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Tell me, David, what can be so bad?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Well, I am not quite whom I seem.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Come on, David. Tell me.\u8221\'94 She gave an impatient sigh. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Err... My parents are quite wealthy, the Duke and Duchess actually. Luckily for me, they are still quite young so I am not going to inherit the title yet... \u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He paused, waiting for her reaction.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth stuttered. \u8220\'93But\u8230\'85 but, you\u8217\'92re a normal guy. You don\u8217 \'92t act like a Marquess.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David laughed. \u8220\'93And how is a Marquess expected to act?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She giggled. \u8220\'93I\u8217\'92m not sure. I\u8217\'92ve not met that many."\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He smiled back at her, \u8220\'93Don\u8217\'92t let it change anything, Elizabeth. Please keep treating me the same as you have been.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Of course, but you do realise that my mother is going to want to meet you, when she finds out about you.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I think my mother will be having exactly the same thoughts.\u8221\'94 He chuckled before kissing her softly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The arrival\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth entered the Dining Room apprehensively that evening. It was such an honour to be invited to the Captain\u8217\'92s table and she hoped that she wouldn\u8217\'92 t do anything silly like knocking her wine over because of her nervousness.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Don\u8217\'92t worry, you\u8217\'92ll be fine. Enjoy the occasion.\u8221\'94 David whispered to her as he felt her body tremble slightly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at him before whispering back, \u8220\'93I hope so, David.\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Captain saw her enter and strode over to her with his hand outstretched. He shook her hand before asking, \u8220\'93Madam, how are you? I hope that you are enjoying your trip and have recovered from your unpleasant experience.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I have recovered very well,\u8221\'94 Elizabeth replied. \u8220\'93David has made sure of that.\u8221\'94 She looked at David and smiled at him. David touched her hand softly. Her nervousness evaporated as she felt his touch.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Good,\u8221\'94 the Captain answered, nodding at both of them. \u8220\'93It\u8217 \'92s a pleasure to have you both dine at my table tonight. It promises to be a fine meal.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, we are looking forward to it.\u8221\'94 David replied.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The gong sounded.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Ladies and Gentlemen. Dinner is now served.\u8221\'94 A voice rang out seemingly from nowhere.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David took Elizabeth\u8217\'92s hand and guided her to her place at the long table at the end of the room. As she sat down, the wine waiter was hovering at her side. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Red or White wine, madam?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Red, please.\u8221\'94 Elizabeth replied, smiling at him. He filled her glass deftly before moving on along the table. She picked up the menu card from the table and studied it before choosing her meal.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93David, have you seen the menu card tonight? The picture on the other side is wonderful.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David looked at it before smiling back at her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It seems that you are feeling less awkward now. Is that right?\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes. Thank you.\u8221\'94 She smiled. \u8220\'93It\u8217\'92s been an amazing day.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth wondered about her mother and how she would react to her news. Perhaps it would be better to say nothing to her when she phoned her the next time. Thoughts of her unbelievable journey continued to run through her mind.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The conversation around the table changed into a more general one as the guests started to talk.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Sir, are you on target to get the record, the \u8216\'91Blue Riband\u8217\'92 one?\u8221\'94 She heard someone ask the Captain.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She whispered to David. \u8220\'93What\u8217\'92s the \u8216\'91Blue Riband\u8217\'92 record?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93It\u8217\'92s a honour for crossing the Atlantic in the fastest time.\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 The Captain replied. \u8220\'93No, not this time, the heavy fog we ran into delayed us a bit.\u8221\'94 She heard her table companions give their commiserations as she added hers.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David \u8217\'92s voice broke into her thoughts. \u8220\'93So, Elizabeth. Would you like to visit my home and meet my parents?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She smiled at him happily before nodding her head. They continued to eat their meal joining in the conversations that were continuing around the table.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After the coffee, the Captain rose from the table and made his farewells. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth looked at David as she stifled a yawn. \u8220\'93I\u8217\'92m feeling rather tired as well. It has been a busy day today. Would you mind awfully if we went back to the cabin?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Of course not,\u8221\'94 David replied, \u8220\'93mine or yours?\u8221\'94\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yours please, many of my belongings are there anyway.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David rose from his chair before helping Elizabeth from hers. Together they bade their farewells to the other guests and left the room.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth entered David\u8217\'92s cabin and slipped off her shoes as she sat down. She felt tired after the long day she had just shared with David. A sudden thought entered her mind. \u8216\'91Mmm that would be a relaxing end to their busy day.\u8217\'92 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93David? Would you like to share my shower?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She saw David smile as he followed her into the bathroom. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She kissed him as she reached and unbuttoned his shirt, slowly caressing his chest as she slipped it off him. Her fingers reached down and unbuttoned his trousers. She smiled as they fell to the floor. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 After she removed her clothes, she reached into the shower and turned on the water, adjusting the spray and the temperature before turning and smiling at him again.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She stepped into it, pulling David in behind her. She noticed when he reached for the lotion and felt his soft caresses when he gently rubbed it into her skin. She giggled when he scooped up some bubbles and tickled her neck. Then she sighed with pleasure as she felt his gentle touches massaging her body.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her nipples started to tingle when his fingers bathed her breasts, feeling his sensuous touch. She felt them harden as he sprayed the water on her to rinse them.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt his hands stroking her. His soft, gentle touches around her waist, sending ripples of pleasure through her body. His touch. Her body. Together. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She moaned with pleasure. David looked at her and kissed her passionately before continuing his soapy massage.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She groaned when he reached down and soaped her inner thighs. His fingers brushed against her inner lips sporadically. Those touches sent her further into her ecstasy as she felt the pulsations deeper inside her. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her breaths became faster. She moaned. She felt her body tighten. Faster and faster . She groaned with pleasure as her body hit its climatic peak.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She fell back into David\u8217\'92s arms.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 As her breathing slowly returned to normal, she turned to him and kissed him passionately . \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She looked at him with a twinkle in her eye,\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Now it\u8217\'92s your turn.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She reached for the lotion and tipped some in the palm of her hand. Rubbing her palms together she spread it equally before reaching for David\u8217\'92s chest. Her hands deftly massaged the lotion into his skin. Her soft tender touches as she reached his nipples before trailing her fingers down along his body.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Her fingers stroked against his thighs before she moved inside them. She made him spread his legs further so she could reach his testicles. She wanted him to feel the pleasures that he had just given her. She felt his twitches as she stroked along them up towards her ultimate goal.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She kissed his body as she continued to massage him. Her tongue licking him further and lower along his body. She kissed the tip of his member and heard his sharp intake of breath. Smiling to herself, she continued and started to taste him. Her tongue swirled around him before taking him deeper into her mouth. Feeling his hardness as her tongue quivered under his shaft.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She felt his muscles stiffening as her hands stroked his buttocks. His thrusts pushed him deeper into her mouth. She tasted. She wanted more. She sucked.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She heard him yell. All at once, she could taste his fluid. She swallowed the seemingly never-ending liquid that was flowing from him. Drinking him. Tasting him like never before.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Time stood still for a moment before she heard David\u8217\'92s whisper. \u8220\'93Come on, I think its time for bed.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He reached up and turned off the shower before lifting her into his arms and carrying her to the bed.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She woke late the next morning. David and she were still entwined in each others arms . She ran her fingers along his cheek before kissing him. She heard him sigh as his arms tightened around her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Are you awake?\u8221\'94 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She chuckled. \u8220\'93Do you realise what the time is? It appears that we have overslept .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David looked at her and smiled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I don\u8217\'92t suppose this is surprising, after all it was a very long day yesterday. I\u8217\'92m not sure what time it was when we finally made it to bed .\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93We need to get up, I would like to see the coast of America as we approach it ,\u8221\'94 she exclaimed excitedly.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 He smiled at her enthusiasm.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 She kissed him softly before rising from the bed and going into the bathroom.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David dressed and waited patiently for her to emerge before they went onto the Promenade deck and into the cocktail lounge to watch the coast approach.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I understand a new pier has been built to accommodate the arrival,\u8221\'94 David told her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh that\u8217\'92s good because she is an amazing liner. It has been a wonderful cruise.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93I\u8217\'92m glad you have enjoyed it.\u8221\'94 David replied as he hugged her.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Oh look David, is that land over there?\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 David looked in the direction she was pointing. \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\u8220 \'93Yes, I believe it is.\u8221\'94\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * * \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 When the liner sailed into New York, an amazing experience was waiting for them. The newly built Pier 90 was crowded with people waving their banners and streamers. The hooters sounded. People were cheering and hugging each other.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth checked her watch. The time was 4:20pm. The journey had taken five days and just over five hours. In that time, Elizabeth had found her lover for the rest of her days. The suitor that her mother would welcome with open arms.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 Elizabeth smiled.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f2\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f0\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 * * *\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f0\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 ( c)Esu Migabe 2005\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 Foot Notes \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 I hope you have enjoyed reading this story as much as I enjoyed writing it. As always, feedback is appreciated, since it is my only payment for my work. Please address comments to {\cf2 esu_migabe@hotmail.com}\par } \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 I would also like to express my thanks to my editors who gave me the enthusiasm to keep this story flowing. Thank you Russell and Stasya for all your kind words.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 This story is copyrighted by the author and as such may not be published, posted or archived on any newsgroup, website, or server, other than ASSM and ASSTR, without the EXPRESS PERMISSION of the author. Any reader may archive a copy of this story, provided the warnings and copyright information is attached in full.\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f0\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\b\f0\lang2057\fs24\kerning28 \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\ri385\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663 \tx4580\tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx7920\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740 \tx14655{\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28 ***************************************************************** \par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1\tx915\tx1831\tx2747\tx3663\tx4580 \tx5495\tx6412\tx7327\tx8244\tx9160\tx10075\tx10991\tx11908\tx12824\tx13740\tx14655 {\f1\lang2057\fs20\kerning28\par} \pard\nowidctlpar\nooverflow\hyphpar0\sl240\slmult1{\f0\lang2057\fs24\kerning28\par } }