Chapter 32
Suddenly Single—What a Trip!
Dear sweet readers,
As we reach the end of this incredible journey, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for joining me on this adventure. From the high seas to the harrowing drama and all the tips and tales in between, it’s been one heck of a ride.
We’ve laughed together, solved dilemmas, and shared in the joy of newfound love and friendships. Your letters and stories have made this journey so special—with the exception of a certain ex who tried to utilize them as a means of manipulation. But that aside, I feel honored to have been a part of your cruising experience.
As we close out this chapter, remember that every ending is just the beginning of a new adventure. Keep exploring, keep discovering, and always keep a sense of wonder in your heart. Life is a grand voyage, and there are so many more horizons to explore.
Until we meet again on another exciting journey, may your sails be full, your seas be calm, and your hearts be happy.
Happy cruising,
XOXO Trixie
The Emerald Queen has docked back in Florida and the bustling energy of disembarkation fills the air.
“We made it,” Nettie says as we approach the gangway where a few members of the crew are bidding farewell to our fellow passengers with their trademark charm.
Wes, Ransom, Elodie, and Tinsley are waving like mad and taking a few spontaneous selfies with the best of them.
Since Bess, Nettie, and I purchase our cabins, we need to embark and disembark right along with the rest of the guests. We usually kill a few hours on land, then are right back on the ship, ready and raring to go on our next adventure.
“We made it, indeed,” Wes says as he gives a slight bow our way, all done up in his white captain’s regalia. “And what a cruise it was.”
“Hello, ladies.” Ransom offers an amicable nod as well, looking as sharp as ever in his requisite inky dark suit. He pulls me close and lands a searing kiss on my lips.
“I can’t believe it’s over,” Bess says, adjusting her hat, which she miraculously kept safe throughout the wild ride. “This cruise was something else.”
“Speak for yourself,” Nettie grumbles. “I still haven’t found my silver fox, but there’s always the next time.” She glances at her watch. “And next time starts in just under five hours.”
A large mob moves between us and Wes waves their way. “Safe travels, everyone. We hope to see you all again soon.”
Ransom nods past me and I turn that way just in time to see Amber Walker pulling her luggage. Her expression is somber, but she manages a mournful smile my way.
“I guess this is goodbye,” she says as she opens her arms and I offer her a quick embrace.
“Take care, Amber,” I say, giving her a hug. “I hope things get better from here.”
“Thanks, Trixie,” Amber says. “This trip was a roller coaster. It’s going to take me and the rest of my friends quite some time to process.”
“I can imagine,” I say. “I wish you only the best.”
As soon as she steps onto the gangway, Jennifer Mitchell takes her place and surprisingly she looks more relaxed than I’ve seen her in days.
“Trixie”—the blonde offers me a quick embrace—“there’s something I want to tell you.” She looks serious but hopeful. “I’ve decided to take things slower with Marcus. I don’t foresee marriage in the cards for us anytime soon. I think I’m going to enjoy being single for a while.”
A wave of relief rolls through me. Everything about her fiancé sent red flags my way. I hate to say it, but I’m thrilled to hear about her decision.
“That sounds like a good plan,” I tell her, pulling her into another quick hug. “You deserve to focus on yourself for a change. Take your time with things and please put yourself first.”
“I will. Thank you, Trixie. Thank you for everything.” Jennifer waves goodbye to the rest of the crew before striding off the ship.
The crowd dies down and Wes steps forward, giving a slight bow my way as he clears his throat. “I have an announcement that concerns all of you.”
I glance at Ransom as if to ask if he’s in the know and he simply shrugs in response.
“Due to a hurricane headed for the Caribbean”—Wes begins—“Royal Lineage Cruise Lines has decided to redirect the Emerald Queen . We’ll be heading up the Eastern Seaboard next for our fall foliage cruise.”
Ransom and I exchange a stunned glance.
“That means…?” I look at Wes and take a quick breath.
“That’s right, Trixie.” Wes ticks his head to the side. “You’ll have the chance to get married a whole lot sooner than expected.”
“Yes!” Elodie claps her hands and belts out a whoop. “Trixie, you can finally put all that lingerie I’ve been plying you with to good use!”
We break out into a collective laugh.
“Congratulations.” Bess offers both Ransom and me a firm embrace. “I’m so happy for you both!”
Nettie belts out a cock-a-doodle-doo and from somewhere down on the other end of the gangway a group of women reciprocates.
We share another laugh at that one.
“Bring on the champagne,” Nettie calls out. “We need to toast to your new life.”
“I guess we’ll toast at the wedding soon enough, too,” I say as a sudden burst of excitement hits me. “A wedding that’s just days away!” A whole other rush of adrenaline hits me. “Oh my goodness, I need to get my hair done. And what about my nails? I need to call my kids asap. I need a dress! ”
Tinsley shakes her head my way. “You really do think every cruise is about you.”
“The next one will be,” Ransom says without missing a beat.
“It will be about us ,” I say wrapping my arms around my handsome, strong, unshakeable fiancé.
Wes chuckles at the two of us. “It looks as if your single days are numbered.”
“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Ransom says as he steals a kiss from my lips.
I nod up at him. “And I am counting down the hours.”
The best is yet to come, and in just a few short days our destinies will be changed forever—for the better.
And with that, we step into the future, ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.
And something tells me, it will be trouble.
Family Group Chat:
Trixie:Hey, everyone! Exciting news—the ship is headed up the Eastern Seaboard next, and guess what? That means we’ll be stopping off in Maine!
Stanton:Well, isn’t that just the cherry on top. Planning another nonsense trip with your rent-a-cop?
Abbey:Dad! That is so rude! Please apologize ASAP! Ransom and Emerson, don’t pay him any mind. Parker and I are thrilled! And Mom? Does this mean what I think it means?
Parker:Wait, are you saying you’re moving up the wedding date?
Trixie:Yes, you guessed it! We’re moving up the wedding date. With the ship stopping in Maine, it felt like the perfect opportunity. I’ll get the details to you as soon as we can figure them out. I couldn’t be happier!
Ransom:That goes double for me.
Emerson:Aww! Congrats, guys! Can’t wait to celebrate! Let me know how I can help with the preparations.
Abbey: Yup! Parker and I are ready to help, too!
Stanton:Well, this should be interesting. Don’t expect me to throw confetti.
Abbey:Dad, honestly, just be happy for her. Mom, this is wonderful news. Can’t wait to see you walk down the aisle!
Parker:All this is happening next week? We’ll make it work!
Emerson:We’re here for whatever you guys need. Let’s make this the wedding of your dreams.
Trixie:Thank you all! Your support means the world to me. And Stanton, you’re welcome to come and see what real love looks like. ?? Can’t wait to celebrate with all of you soon!
Ransom: One thing is for sure, it will be a wedding to remember.
Stanton: Oh, it will be. I’ll make sure of that.
*Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoyed the trip! Be sure to pick up Fatal Fall Foliage Cruise , coming up next!