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CHAPTER 10
Suddenly Single—What a Trip!
Since so many of you have written to let me know that I’ve inspired you to take your first cruise, I thought I’d drop a few quick tips for you.
For starters, as tempting as it might be, you don’t need to pack a blow-dryer. Cruise lines these days have outfitted themselves with top-of-the line equipment—and most of the time they’re luxurious! The cruise line will also provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner, and spa-worthy lotion to keep you smooth and supple.
Don’t forget that you and your luggage will be separated for a short while on the first day you arrive. Even though mix-ups are few and far between, I’d err on the side of caution and pack your essentials (medications, a clean change of clothes, makeup, toothbrush, phone, e-reader, laptop, and chargers) in a carry-on bag that stays with you at all times. That way, should Lady Luck not be on your side, at least you’ll be comfortable until you and your luggage are reunited.
The next tip is a little hard to believe, but you won’t be needing nearly the amount of clothing you think you’ll need. I like options just as much as the next girl, but as an avid over-packer, I’ve learned the hard way that less is more—and less than that is even better. Don’t forget to mix and match. That skirt you wore to the bon voyage party can be spruced up with a different blouse and worn another day.
And for goodness’ sake, don’t pack towels. The cruise line will not only provide clean towels for your daily needs, they provide beach towels for use both on the ship and for day trips to the beach.
Another perk of packing light is that you’ll have more room for souvenirs on the way home.
Which brings me to my next—not so light—point. If you’re hopping on a luxury liner, odds are you’re going to eat well. Leave the skinny jeans and formfitting dresses at home if you can. There are so many fun things to do and see, you’ll want to be comfortable for them all. I suggest clothing that could accommodate an expanding waistline.
If you’re going to be in paradise, you may as well enjoy the trip—and the food!
Until we meet again.
Bon voyage!
XOXO ~ Trixie
As much as I wanted to give them the lowdown on that handsome ghost, the even more handsome—and might I add, breathing—boyfriend of mine, along with the fact I stumbled upon Julia Edwards’ body—there are just some things better left unsaid.
It’s late morning on our second day docked in Oahu.
Ransom has a meeting with port authorities, Bess and Nettie have decided to spend the day reading by the pool—a good way to have the water all to themselves while everyone else is on land—and Elodie has inventory to tend to.
Once I’m done with my blog, I head to deck six to Sea Beans Coffee where I order my favorite iced latte and take a seat that overlooks the harbor and Waikiki Beach. The people look small as ants and the water looks like something right out of a coloring book, such a pretty color of aqua. I’m about to pull my sketch pad and watercolor markers out of my tote bag when a familiar face crops up.
“Captain Crawford,” I say brightly. “Care to join me?”
Wes looks regal in his pristine white shirt and his navy slacks with a gold belt buckle in the shape of an anchor.
“I was about to ask if I could do just that.” He lands on the opposite side of the table and offers a pained smile. “I suppose you heard about the coroner’s report.”
My eyes widen a moment.
Has Ransom been holding out on me?
Of course, he has!
That rascal has zero intention of keeping me in the know. But the captain here obviously isn’t apprized.
I give a casual nod. “What was it that killed her again?” I squint as if searching the recesses of my mind for an answer that seems to be eluding me—and it will forever if he doesn’t speak up.
“Cobra toxin,” he says and his dimples dig in as he laments the fact. “In other words, cobra venom. Obviously, we don’t have any snakes on the ship and the coroner didn’t find any bites on the woman…so the killer—”
“I knew there was a killer.” My hand slams over the table so hard my latte jumps an inch. “And cobra venom?” I shake my head. “Unless they had a snake who could bite on command, they clearly brought the venom from home, which means this was definitely premeditated. Someone came on board this ship, waited for that party to take place in the Diamond Lounge where they knew she would have a cocktail in her hand, and they laced it. Wes, we need to review the security footage from that night.”
“Ransom is one step ahead of you. He and Quinn requested full access to the footage from the night of the accident—or more to the point, murder.” He says that last word while looking around cautiously.
“So he’s already seen the footage?” I fold my arms in a fit of frustration. “Ransom Baxter just does not fight fair.”
“You’re telling me.” He frowns, meeting my disdain. “So what are you up to this beautiful day?”
