7. Emma
Emma
"Bags to the belt on the right. Cruise cards out and ready."
A tall, dark, and fierce-looking security guard named Tony, built like a tank, calls out instructions every so often to all of us waiting in line to get off the ship in Cozumel. My mind keeps drifting back to last night, the image of Sophia Russo kissing Captain Leo burned into my brain. A wide variety of emotions swirl in my head and I know damn well I shouldn't have any of them.
I'm here for a story, I remind myself. If Captain Leo really is purely a playboy and only the captain of this ship by name and not responsibility, it'll make for a great exposé. The journalist in me knows this is the perfect opportunity to dig deeper, to uncover the truth behind the carefully crafted"Captain Dreamy"persona.
But there's a part of me that can't ignore the hurt I felt seeing him kiss Sophia. I thought we had a connection, that he was genuine when he confided in me about the publicity stunts being for show. Was I wrong? Was it all just an act? I guess that's what players do.
Is this how 'real' grown-ups act? How more mature men and women handle relationships? After all, he is so much older than me, and I've barely dipped my toe into the dating world, let alone had any real adult relationships. Am I na?ve to think that a few moments together meant the same to him as I guess it did to me?
Swallowing hard, I try to clear my thoughts. I can't let my emotions cloud my judgment. I need to focus on the task at hand - getting to the bottom of Captain Leo's story. If he is a lying sack of what I pick up off the sidewalk when I dog-sit for Paul- then so be it. That could be a great story.
As I inch closer to the front of the line, I steel myself for the day ahead. The ATV trip is the perfect chance to observe Leo in a more relaxed setting. Maybe I'll be able to get him to open up, to reveal more about his true self.
When it’s my turn, I hand my cruise card to Tony, the imposing yet handsome security guard. He scans it, and I hear a distinct beep, different from the other guests. Tony's eyes flick to the computer screen, reading something intently. My heart races as I wonder what could possibly be wrong.
"Ms. Hart,"Tony says, looking down at me with a smile,"the Captain and other staff are waiting for you to the right as you exit. Have a wonderful time today and most importantly stay safe."
There's a freaking alert on my cruise card? Did the Captain do that? Trying to hide my surprise, I nod and follow his instructions.
As I step off the gangway, I spot Beatrice and Rachel waiting for me. They greet me with warm smiles and friendly hugs.
"Emma!"Beatrice exclaims."We're so excited to have you join us today."
"Absolutely,"Rachel chimes in."It's going to be a fantastic adventure."
Her enthusiasm is infectious."I'm excited! Thank you for talking me into doing the game show!"
Just then, Captain Leo appears at Rachel's side, his presence commanding attention. Instead of his usual crisp uniform, he's wearing a pair of khaki cargo shorts and a cruise ship logo polo in a blue that matches his eyes. The fabric stretches across his broad chest and powerful biceps and I wonder who would win in a fight- Tony, or Leo? I thought he looked devastatingly handsome in his uniform but I might prefer this more relaxed version.
Beatrice and Rachel quickly excuse themselves to board the shuttle bus, leaving me alone with the enigmatic captain. It's then that I see a photographer by the bus snapping away, capturing Leo's every move, likely for another promotional spread.
"Good morning, Emma,"Leo says, his deep voice sending shivers down my spine."Did you sleep well?"
I turn, trying to avoid the camera and appear nonchalant."Like a baby. And you, Captain?"
He smiles, but there's a hint of something else in his eyes."I had a pretty restless night, actually. By the way, where's Paul? I thought he'd be joining us today."
"Oh, Paul had a rather restless night as well I think. He met a charming gentleman named Roberto at the silent disco and, well, let's say they hit it off quite well. He didn't stumble through the door until five this morning. He was happily snoring when I left."
Leo's eyebrows shoot up in surprise."Roberto? So, Paul is...?"
"Gay? Yes, he is,"I confirm, studying Leo's face. I'm almost hoping for a hint of disapproval. A homophobic bigot for a captain could add some depth to my so-far nonexistent article.
"I see,"he says,"Well, I'm glad he had a good time."
There's a moment of silence between us, charged with unspoken thoughts and feelings. Leo finally breaks the tension by gesturing towards the shuttle bus."Looks like our ride is ready. After you…"
He places his hand on the small of my back, guiding me towards the vehicle. The touch is light, but it sends a jolt of electricity through my body. The warmth of his wide palm seeps through the thin fabric of my cotton tank top, and I have to resist the urge to lean into his touch.
We reach the bus, and Leo removes his hand to help me up the steps. The loss of contact is almost painful, and I have to stop myself from reaching out to him again. I settle into my seat, my skin still tingling from his touch.
As I settle into my seat on the bus, Beatrice plops down next to me, her infectious grin lighting up her face. She's dressed in a bright yellow tank top and matching sneakers with black leggings. Her long brunette hair is pulled back into a high ponytail, and she's wearing a pair of oversized black sunglasses that cover half her face.
"So, Beatrice,"I begin casually,"You're a full-time cruiser, right? Have you ever sailed with Captain Maxwell before?"
Beatrice removes her sunglasses and underneath her eyes sparkle."Oh, yes! I've been sailing full-time for years and I actually spent several months on another ship that Captain Leo commanded before he took the helm of the Celestial Odyssey."
My ears perk up at this tidbit of information."Really? What was he like as a captain then? Has he always been a playboy?"
Beatrice laughs, shaking her head."Oh my goodness! No, no, no. Leo is quite the opposite. All work and no play is more like it. That's all just a media portrayal. The real Leo is far from that image. He's dedicated, professional, and genuinely cares about his crew and passengers. I've seen him handle crises with such skill and composure, it's truly impressive."
She goes on to share a few examples of Leo's leadership and expertise, painting a picture of a dutiful and capable captain. I find myself hanging on her every word, my mind racing with the implications of this new information.
"It's a shame, really,"Beatrice sighs,"that the cruise line's projected image is overshadowing his genuine abilities. I mean I understand that they need to market using their best assets. And he's got ASSets, am I right? But he's so much more than just a rocking bod…and a toe-curling smolder…and a face that could launch a thousand ships…and…"she giggles at her rabbit trail.
"I noticed last night at the game show,"I say cautiously,"He and Sophia Russo seemed pretty cozy. Are you going to tell me that lip lock was part of the 'Captain Dreamy' show, too?"
Beatrice's eyes widen, and she leans in closer."Oh, you noticed that, huh? I saw it too. Sophia went off the rails. Usually it's only pictures and at most a dance. I heard Leo lay into her after the show. He was furious. Told her off for crossing the line. He really does hate this whole 'playboy' image they force on him."
I try to absorb Beatrice's revelations as the bus winds through the colorful streets of Cozumel. A wave of confusion washes over me. My secret mission isn't going to be as straightforward as I initially thought.
Instead of digging up dirt on a mere figurehead, I might be uncovering the truth about a misrepresented and underestimated leader. The thought both excites and terrifies me. On one hand, it's the kind of story that could make a difference, shedding light on the reality behind the carefully crafted facade. But is that the story that's going to sell?
As we drive south, I notice the Playa Mia Grand Beach Park, where several buses are unloading passengers from various cruise lines. I remember reading about this place being a hot spot for cruisers seeking sun, sand, and giant water inflatables.
Our bus takes a left turn, heading inland towards the smaller village of El Cedral. As we navigate the narrow streets, I spot tour guides holding signs advertising Mayan ruin tours.
We pass by bustling market stalls where local artisans sell their handmade crafts. I spot intricate jewelry, colorful textiles, and beautiful pottery. The air wafting through the open windows of the bus is filled with the mouthwatering aroma of street food. I wonder if we’ll have time to stop and try some street tacos later.
The bus comes to a stop a while later at an ATV camp nestled in the lush Cozumel jungle. I step out and take in my surroundings. The air is thick with humidity, and the sounds of exotic birds and insects fill the air. I spot Leo deep in conversation with Rachel, their heads bent close together as if discussing something important. They both look at me momentarily and I swear my ears are burning.
Rachel then claps her hands, drawing everyone's attention."Alright, folks! Let's pair up for the ATV ride. Safety first, and it's always more fun with a partner!"
She starts assigning pairs, and I notice that Leo keeps glancing my way. When Rachel reaches us, she gives me a knowing smile."Emma, you'll be riding with Captain Leo. He'll make sure you have a fantastic experience."
I raise an eyebrow, but before I can dwell on it, he's by my side, helping me onto the ATV. The vehicle dips slightly under our combined weight, and I’m forced to hold on to him and lean into his solid back.
Rachel and the photographer share a four-wheeler. The photographer switches to a small self-stabilizing video camera and gets into position on the back of Rachel's ATV, ready to capture any significant moments.
As we set off into the jungle, the proximity is almost overwhelming. Every bump and dip in the path causes me to grip Leo tighter, my hands resting on his firm abs. The heat between us intensifies with each passing moment, and it's from more than the tropical sun beating down on us.
Leo navigates the ATV with ease, maneuvering through the dense foliage and over rocky terrain. Every bump sends my crotch simultaneously jamming down onto the vinyl seat and forward into Leo. My breasts rub against his back as I hold on for dear life over some of the bumpier sections of the trail. All the jostling and friction paired with the closeness to Leo is driving me crazy with the need for respite- or release. We can't talk over the roar of the four-wheeler engines, but there's a tangible tension and I’m so tightly wound I could snap.
After what feels like an eternity, I see the trail sign for the cenote and our caravan slows as we all veer off the trail and park at its entrance. Leo dismounts first and offers me his hand, helping me off the ATV with a gentle but firm grip. The tender skin on the back of my arms lights up with fire from even that brief contact. What am I thirteen again at my first school dance?
I clench and unclench my fists, trying to regain my composure and take in the cenote's view. The sight before me is breathtaking. The crystal-clear turquoise water is nestled within a lush green jungle, the cenote's rocky walls adorned with vibrant green foliage and delicate flowers. Stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water, hang from the ceiling and rise from the floor, adding to the otherworldly beauty of this hidden oasis.
"It's absolutely beautiful,"I whisper, my voice filled with awe.
"Absolutely beautiful,"Leo echoes softly.
When I turn to him, I realize he's not looking at the cenote at all. His eyes are fixed on me, a tender expression on his face. The intensity of his gaze has my skin alive with anticipation, and my heart dancing.
Oh my. This isn't good.