I go back down to my room and snuggle up to Hayden’s back as she sleeps.
My mind is in overdrive.
If this doesn’t go to plan . . .
I run through the million scenarios that might happen, how badly this could backfire, and although I know I’m doing the wrong thing, one thing is undeniable.
My life at home is something that only a strong love can withstand.
The people, the places . . . the pressure from the paparazzi.
I need to prepare her better. We need more time.
“These are your uniforms,” Captain Mark says as he hands out zipped-up suit bags. “We ordered the sizes you requested, and if something doesn’t fit, we do have a few extras downstairs in the storeroom.”
Captain Mark begins talking about the yacht and telling us every boring little detail, and I glance over at Basil. He’s unzipped his suit bag and is frowning at something inside. His eyes rise to meet mine.
“What?” I mouth.
He holds up a red glitter bow tie. “What the fuck?” he mouths.
Huh.
As Captain Mark keeps talking, I slowly undo my suit bag. There are three uniforms and then a black pair of suit pants and a red glitter bow tie on a hanger.
“Captain Mark, what is this?” I hold up the bow tie.
He glances over. “That’s your uniform for tonight.”
“My what?”
“Mr. Escott wanted a diverse crew so he could hold themed parties. You each have a party uniform like the one you were wearing in the club he met you at.” He smiles proudly. “He was very impressed with you all.”
I imagine the boys’ faces when they see me in this uniform.
Dear god, no.
This can’t be happening.
Hayden unzips her bag and pulls out a tiny French maid uniform, complete with suspender belts. “I’m not wearing this,” she says adamantly.
“But . . .”
“I wore that outfit when I was in a private club where people had sex on stage. Nobody was even looking at me, and I blended in. Wearing that here in this environment is just damn sleazy. I’m not a stripper for rich men to ogle.”
“I agree,” Kimberly says.
“Same,” Bernadette chimes in.
Captain Mark frowns as he looks between them. “Fine, the girls can wear something else. But the uniform sticks with the men. The theme for tonight is cabaret. You girls will have to come up with something in that theme. I want over-the-top fun. There are costumes and decorations in the storeroom belowdecks.”
He looks at me. “Mr. Escott said you dance, Christo. Do you have your music with you?”
“I don’t fucking dance,” I scoff, horrified.
Hayden gets the giggles.
“This isn’t funny,” I spit.
“He sent me a video of you dancing while you make cocktails.”
“That was goofing off, not professional fucking dance routines.”
“Just do that, then.” He glances at his watch. “We have a DJ boarding in half an hour.”
“A DJ?” Basil frowns. “How many people are coming?”
“Around thirty, but most of them aren’t staying on the yacht. We will drop them back at the mainland once the party has finished.”
“What time will that be?” I ask.