Love lies and a billionaire’s secret

CHAPTER FORTY–SIX–CLOSE QUARTERS

Opening the message, she read: “Heard you’re joining us on the cruise. Can’t wait to pick up where we left off. 🙂”

Nia stared at the screen, a mix of emotions churning in her stomach. Excitement at the prospect of spending more time with Justin warred with anxiety about navigating the unfamiliar world of luxury cruises and high society.

She flopped back on her bed, phone clutched to her chest. A luxury cruise with both Allistair brothers? What could possibly go wrong?

As Nia lay there, her mind raced with possibilities. She imagined herself lounging by a crystal–clear pool, sipping fruity cocktails with little umbrellas. She pictured elegant dinners where she’d have to remember “which fork to use for each course. And of course, she couldn’t help but think about moonlit walks on the

deck with Justin…

But then reality began to creep in. What would she wear? How would she fit in with the other guests, who were surely all wealthy and sophisticated? And what about Leon? Would it be awkward to be on vacation with her boss?

Nía sat up abruptly, suddenly overwhelmed. She needed advice, and she knew just who to call.

Grabbing her phone, she quickly dialed her best friend, Maria.

“Hello?” Maria’s voice came through the speaker.

“Maria, I need help,” Nia blurted out..”I’m going on a cruise.”

There was a pause on the other end of the line. “Okay… and this is a problem because…?”

Nia took a deep breath and launched into the whole story the gala, the almost–kiss with Justin, Leon’s) surprise announcement, and Justin’s text.

When she finally finished, slightly out of breath, Maria Jet out a low whistle. “Wow, Nia, That’s… a lot. But girl, this is amazing! A luxury cruise? With a hot guy who’s clearly into you? What’s the problem?

Nia sighed. “The problem is… I don’t belong in that world, Maria. I’m just a janitor. What if I embarrass myself? What if Tembarrass the company?”

“Stop right there,” Maria said firmly. “You are not just anything. You’re Nia freakin‘ Martinez, the woman who pulled off an impossible gala and impressed the big bosses. You earned this, girl. And as for fitting in… who cares? Be yourself. That’s clearly what’s attracted Justin to you.”

Nia felt a small smile tugging at her lips. “You really think so?”

“I know so,” Maria replied confidently. “Now, let’s focus on the Important stuff. What are you going to pack?

For the next hour, Nia and Maria discussed potential outfits, cruise activities, and strategies for navigating social situations. By the time they hung up, Nia felt much calmer and even excited about the upcoming adventure.

As she got ready for bed that night, Nia caught sight of herself in the mirror. The woman looking back at her wasn’t just a janitor or an ex–con. She was someone who had faced challenges head–on and come out stronger. Someone who had earned the respect of her colleagues and the attention of a handsome executive.

CHAPTER FORTY–SIX CLOSE QUARTERS

23

“You’ve got this, Nia, she told her reflection, echoing Maria’s words from earlier. “Just be yourself.”

With a deep breath and a determined nod, Nia turned away from the mirror. She had a cruise to prepare for, and she was going to make the most of every moment.

As she drifted off to sleep that night, Nia’s dreams were filled with shimmering ocean waves, twinkling stars, and a pair of warm brown eyes that made her heart flutter. Whatever challenges lay ahead on this cruise, she was ready to face them. And who knew? Maybe, just maybe, she’d find more than just a luxury vacation waiting for her on those gleaming decks.

The next morning, Nia woke up early, her mind already racing with plans and preparations. She had a week before the cruise, and she was determined to be as ready as possible.

First on her list was shopping. Leon had mentioned that appropriate attire would be provided, but Nia wanted to have a few things of her own. She called Maria, and together they hit the local mall.

“Okay, so we need at least one fancy dress for formal nights, Maria said as they browsed through a .department store. “Something that’ll knock Justin’s socks off.”

Nia blushed. “Maria! It’s not just about Justin. I need to look professional too. Remember, Leon will be there.”

Maria rolled her eyes good–naturedly. “Fine, fine. Professional but sexy. Got it.”

After hours of trying on dresses, Nia finally settled on a sleek navy blue gown that hugged her curves without being too revealing. She also picked up a few casual sundresses, a new swimsuit, and some comfortable but stylish sandals.

As they left the mall, bags in hand, Nia felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. “Do you really think I can pull this off, Maria?” she asked quietly.

Maria stopped walking and turned to face her friend. “Nia, listen to me. You are smart, you are beautiful, and you have worked your butt off to get where you are. You absolutely deserve this cruise, and you’re going to be amazing. Got it?”

Nia nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. “Thanks, Maria. I don’t know what I’d do without you.

The rest of the week flew by in a blur of preparations. Nia spent her evenings researching cruise etiquette, learning about the ship’s amenities, and even practicing some basic dance steps (just in case),

The night before departure, Nia stood in her tiny apartment, looking at her packed suitcase. It seemed surreal that tomorrow she’d be boarding a luxury cruise ship, rubbing elbows with the elite of Colossius

Tech

Her phone buzzed with a text from Justin: “See you tomorrow, beautiful. Can’t wait.”

Nia’s heart fluttered as she read the message. Despite her nerves, she couldn’t deny the excitement building inside her. This cruise could be the start of something amazing both personally and professionally.

As she climbed into bed, Nia made a promise to herself. No matter what happened on this cruise, she would stay true to herself. She had earned her place on that ship, and she was going to make the most of every moment.

Nia stood at the base of the gangway, clutching her small suitcase tightly. The massive cruise ship loomed above her, a gleaming white behemoth that seemed to touch the sky. She took a deep breath, trying to quell the butterflies in her stomach..

“You can do this,” she whispered to herself, echoing the pep talk she’d given herself in the mirror that morning. “You earned this.”

CHADEN FORTY–SIX CLOSE QUARTERS

With one final steadying breath, Nia joined the line of passengers making their way onto the ship. As she walked up the gangway, she couldn’t help but feel like an imposter. The other guests were dressed in designer clothes, chattering excitedly about which luxury suite they’d booked or which exclusive restaurant they planned to try first.

Nia glanced down at her simple sundress, suddenly feeling woefully underdressed. She’d thought it looked nice when she left her apartment, but now she wasn’t so sure.

As she stepped onto the ship, Nia’s breath caught in her throat. The opulence surrounding her was overwhelming. Crystal chandeliers hung from intricately decorated ceilings, their light dancing off polished marble floors. Plush carpets in rich, deep colors lined the corridors. Staff members in crisp, white uniforms stood at attention, ready to assist the arriving guests.

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