“This trip is going to be something.”
“That’s for fucking sure. How long after the cruise is over do you think they’ll have a docu-series about the world’s first ever heat cruise and all the drama that ensued?”
“As long as it doesn’t wind up being a poop cruise or like the Titanic, I’ll be happy.”
We laugh and I meet other Betas who seem like they’re here for the right reasons and it’s later than I realize when I get back to the suite.
There’s a note on the bed.
Couldn’t sleep, went for a run.
At least he isn’t sulking in the room; he’s probably the only person running at this time of night.
Knowing he can fully take care of himself, I shower and wait for him for a while, but eventually, sleep takes over.
Chapter 4
Claire
I’ma chicken and I don’t leave my room once during embarkation. I called to have room service bring me food and spent the time unpacking my things.
I dodged all my parents’ calls and instead voice messaged them back, letting them know I’m safe and that I’ll be in touch. Seems like a mixed bag of who’s happy and who isn’t about me being here, but they’ll get over it.
Maybe their frantic calls had me second guessing myself, or the fact that I couldn’t muster up the courage to go and mingle. I’m usually outgoing and I have no issue talking to anyone. I enjoy going out. But I think I just need some time to settle.
My heat is on the horizon and being in a new place is hard for me. It’s okay to give myself grace.
I felt fine all day. I ate most of my meal, but as the sun goes down, it seems like the ship is picking up serious speed.
A wave of nausea rolls through me and I lie on the bed, but that just seems to make everything worse.
“Fuck,” I groan, standing up and going out to the balcony, which doesn’t help. Instead, it draws my focus on the way the waves are crashing against the ship.
Axel’s words about our trip to Greece fill my head, and I feel like having a breakdown. What if I can’t stomach this—literally—and I’m seasick the whole fucking time?
I refuse to go to the infirmary on night one. It’s mind over matter, right? I’ll just go up to one of the upper decks where I can’t see the water and I’m more centered on the ship.
When I reach the elevators, the security guard’s brows furrow. “Is everything alright, Miss Sørensen?” he asks, and I’m shocked he knows my name.
I wonder if all the security has been given a rundown on the Omegas on board, even if they had, his ability to recall my name is impressive.
“Claire, please call me Claire. Yeah, everything’s fine. I’m just going to get some fresh air.”
He gives me a nod. “Just remember, you have the app and your bracelet if you need anything.”
“Thanks,” I say as the elevator opens and I cling to the side, trying to not throw up.
Is this my karma for not thinking anyone in Manhattan was good enough? Is this a sign from the universe that this is a horrible idea?
The elevator doors open and I get out. I take a few steps, realizing I’m on the wrong deck. I was supposed to go to a different deck level. This is the running track that loops around the whole ship, not the pool deck.
I cough and then it all goes downhill from there as I grab on to the edge and vomit. I cling to the railing as I spill the contents of what was a very tasty dinner.
At least no one is around to see my embarrassment. I feel like a thick gust of wind might blow me over as I look at the dark depths of the ocean. A cool breeze blows against my face, and it feels nice.
I rest my cheek against the railing as my stomach rolls again. This time when I throw up, I feel empty, but there’s still a churning in my gut.
I’m on my tiptoes hanging on to the railing for dear life. After a few deep breaths, I melt down the glass wall and sit on the floor, pressing my palm against my forehead. My skin is clammy, and I feel shaky after emptying my stomach.