“Eleanor, how long have you been with the Lynxes for?” I ask, reminding my brain that small talk is a great way to get people relaxed and distracted.
“Just under six months.”
I narrow my eyes at the woman. Just under a year? Mrs. Lynx made it sound like Eleanor had been with the Lynxes forever. It strikes me as a little odd. From what Aran texted me about the Streisses—which is the Lynxes real-world identity—they value the loyalty of their employees above all. A few months isn’t exactly enough to ascertain that, is it?
“Oh, so you are a new starter, like me! I’d never been on a cruise before this one. They almost fired me on day one because I messed up a patrol,” I volunteer, fishing for more.
It’s one of the things Aran taught me—even if it makes no sense to me to prod people and ask questions, everyone loves to talk about themselves. Mix in a few compliments, and they will be more than happy to tell you their life story. How he knows that, I didn’t ask, but considering the kind of special operations my father was involved in before his passing, I’d imagine Aran is very well-versed in all kinds of psychological tricks. Which is funny, when he’s been so bad at acknowledging the mutual attraction between us.
But no more. I have a feeling we are finally about to get back on the right track.
Everyone laughs and Mrs. Lynx even pats me on the head. “Oh, you little troublemaker. I bet that gave your friend a headache!”
It would have, had it happened. But then again, he wasn’t particularly impressed that I’d transferred myself from kitchen duty to guard duty. Look where that got us, though. I would have never met the Lynxes, and consequently, Mong, if I hadn’t YOLO-d a little.
“I am very good at my job now,” I assure everyone, glancing at Eleanor. Her dark brown eyes smile at me, amused and open.
That means she has her guard down, right? Yes. Probably. I bet she could tell me all kinds of secrets about the Lynxes, if I can get her to trust me in the next thirty minutes. Which I can totally do. I just need to figure out how.
18
Hex
Itrynottofeel down that Aran isn’t with me at the Lynxes’ party. Because despite their age and prim image, let me tell you—the couple sure knows how to have fun.
Their giant cabin spans two floors with tall windows that offer an amazing view of the ocean. Art sculptures, blooming plants and gold accentuate the space in a tasteful manner that reflects the vibe of the dining hall. People my age mingle around, carrying glasses of alcohol as soft music plays in the background.
I can’t believe how many guests there are. And Mrs. Lynx wasn’t joking when she said she wanted everyone to have a great time as smiles, laughter and cheers welcome us when we enter the cabin.
Finger food and drinks are scattered on high tables around what I assume is the lounge. Leather couches and armchairs have been tucked away from the center of the room, where at least ten people are dancing their assess off. If I had to guess, in total there must be at least a hundred attendees, and most of them look like they are already buzzed. They sure aren’t wasting their time, considering that the game night just ended less than fifteen minutes ago, and the party couldn’t have started before that.
“We’ll go greet the guests, dear,” Mrs. Lynx tells me, leaning in so she can speak in my ear. It’s not noisy like in a bar, but the hum of conversation and music makes it necessary to raise your voice if you wish to be heard. “Please, grab a glass and enjoy yourself. If you need anything, just let Eleanor know.”
Perfect. I aim a wide smile the woman’s way. “Will do!”
A twinge of unease snakes up my back, but I think back to Aran’s words from the other day, and it doesn’t develop into one of those episodes I get when I find myself in crowded and noisy spaces. I am on my own, but I can do this. It’s still a bit scary, but I am here for a reason, so all I need to do is focus on my mission and remind myself that the bad feeling will pass. I won’t let it consume me, because I am stronger than it, just like Aran said.
Once the Lynxes disappear, I take a deep, calming inhale and turn to Eleanor. She’s sourced herself a glass of something and is slowly sipping it while observing the makeshift dance floor. If I could dance a fraction as well as Aran can, I’d totally invite her and wow her with my moves, but as it stands, I’m actually very shit at it unless you are into watching robots have an electrical circuit emergency. Although… Aran hasn’t complained about it even once, but then again, we also haven’t ever danced together. Now that I think about it, that last part needs amending ASAP.
“So, um, is there anything non-alcoholic? I’m not exactly a drinker,” I toss, showing off my straight teeth. They used to be a little crooked, but Aran made me wear braces when I was in high school. I hated it at the time, but now that I am older, I appreciate his foresight very much. I’d have still been cute as fuck either way, but the fact that he cared so much about me even back then warms my heart.
“Are you sure?” Eleanor cocks one thin eyebrow at me. “The Lynxes insisted we serve the luxury whiskey and wine. You’ll probably never get another chance to enjoy something like this.”
Whether it’s a month or twenty years old, alcohol is still alcohol. It just tastes bad to me and would be a waste. “I’m okay. But if there is some soda on the other hand…” I grin at her. “I’m something of a connoisseur of soft drinks.”
She laughs, her pretty face lighting up. “You are kind of dorky, in a cute way. I think I can see why Mrs. Lynx likes you so much.”
She nudges her chin at the breakfast counter under the stairs leading to the second level and we head over there.
“I think she’s just nice like this to everyone,” I argue, remembering Aran telling me that pretending to be humble is the right thing to do when you are being complimented.
The chuckle I get for my troubles proves him right. “Trust me, she has favorites, and you are right up there with me and Anthony.”
My eyebrows shoot up as I snap my attention from the small fridge I’d just opened back to Eleanor, soft drinks all but forgotten.
Covering her mouth with her hand, she gasps. “Oops, did I say that out loud?”
Suddenly, I like her ten times more. “Don’t worry. I am great at keeping secrets.”
