“I’m willing to bet that many people are talking about it,” Chloe said. “We just haven’t heard them. And that’s what’s worrying me. What if something major is being planned?”
“Well, there’s this. I doubt if there’s a bomb on the ship. That could take the killer out, too, and this killer isn’t suicidal. This killer, I believe, wants to rule the world through the internet, taking over every major company that handles anything that has to do with communications, business and pleasure, records, security, gaming, you name it. And if you’re going to rule supreme, you need to stay alive.”
“But if you’re the alpha dog in charge of your mission, you may not mind sacrificing a few of your obedient pups,” Chloe said.
“Or mind giving them a black eye for being too uppity?” Wes asked. “So, either Jeff did freak out and deck Celia—which seems strange to me since he is so obsequious around her! But if it wasn’t him, then he must be in on whatever is going on—otherwise, even little chicken that he is, I think he’d have a problem with someone decking his wife.”
Chloe smiled at him. “Wes, that’s because you would never let anyone hurt your wife!”
“Of course not! I’ve got your back.”
“I mean, your real wife. If you had one or I imagine when you have one.”
“If I ever have a real one,” he told her. “I can’t imagine she’d be any more wonderful than you.”
The words were out of his mouth before he realized two things—they were spoken honestly, and because they were on a case, they were way too personal!
“Sorry!” he added quickly.
But Chloe was smiling. “That’s really nice. And you know what? When the time comes, I could do far worse!”
“Not quite as flowery,” he told her, grinning. “But nice! So, beloved, shall we get ourselves out on deck to watch the wildlife?”
“We need to get ready and head out,” Chloe said.
“Exactly. Let’s do it.”
“All right! I’ll act especially married. I get to run into the bathroom first to get changed for our delightful day of hanging out on lounge chairs.”
“Wow, painful,” Wes said. He lifted a hand quickly. “I know! I’m frustrated, too.”
“And you know what, darling? I really need a new bathing suit! The one I have with me is all frayed,” she told him, shaking her head.
“I wouldn’t begin to choose an article of clothing for you,” Wes said.
“But you know me so well,” she teased.
He laughed. “Okay, I’ll act really married, darling. Get your own freaking bathing suit!”
Shaking her head, she disappeared first into the cabin and then headed into the bathroom to change for their day in lounge chairs.
But as usual, she was quick and professional, appearing a moment later with a little lightweight pool dress over her bathing suit.
He managed to get in and get out just as quickly.
Wes was grinning as they headed to the aft deck area with the adults-only pool. He had a feeling that both he and Chloe might have enjoyed the kids’ pool with its two winding slides and “spray and splash” zones.
“Don’t worry,” Chloe said, pointing out a pair of lounge chairs with several empty near them. “We’ll get on the slide one day.”
“Ouch!” he told her.
“Ouch?”
“What are you? A mind reader? I’m going to need to be careful regarding not just what I say around you, but what I’m thinking as well?”
“Oh yeah?” she arched a brow to him. “What evil thoughts are you thinking?” she demanded.
“Ah, you don’t know!” he teased.
