Gloria glanced over her shoulder. “This Jeremy sounds like trouble.”
“Big time,” Millie said. “I feel sorry for Tohan. I wouldn’t want to be the person making the call to let his boss know his multi-million dollar yacht is sitting at the bottom of the ocean.”
Chapter 16
Millie, with Gloria assisting, hosted a morning round of trivia. Up next was the VIP ship tour. Their first stop was the engine room, followed by the recycling center and the laundry room. Not typically a part of the tours, she included a peek inside Danielle’s cabin after clearing it with her first.
They took a look around the crew members' dining room, followed by the lounge before heading upstairs and backstage.
“This is where all the magic happens.” Millie unlocked the wardrobe closet, showing them props and pieces ranging from Vegas-style headdresses, sequined and satin gowns, shimmering bodysuits, to tuxedos and tap shoes.
“A headliner show requires between three and six costume changes,” she explained, “based on the show’s complexity.”
“How much does a typical headdress cost?”
“A heavily embellished piece can easily cost hundreds of dollars.” Millie carefully removed a feathered glamor girl piece and handed it to the woman. “This would be in the high-end price range. Be careful…it’s heavier than it looks.”
The woman held it with both hands. “It’s like balancing a bowling ball on your head.”
“A bowling ball is the perfect comparison. I’ll have to remember it.” Millie passed the headpiece around the room. “Our talented team sings, dances, and executes high-flying acrobatics all while the ocean is in motion.”
“I have a greater appreciation for their talent.” The man handed the headpiece to Millie. “I’ve taken several tours. This is by far the best.”
“Thank you. I love giving guests a glimpse into what life is like on board.” She slid the headpiece back onto the shelf. “Our next stop is the galley. The tour concludes on the bridge where you’ll meet Captain Armati.”
Because it was a small group, they squeezed into a midship elevator for the ride to deck seven. Millie had given Annette and Barty a heads up which meant they were waiting for them.
Annette stepped forward to greet the guests. “Welcome to one of the busiest areas on board the ship. Based on the number of passengers, Siren of the Seas being a larger cruise ship, my culinary team is in charge of preparing thousands of meals every day.”
“I’m sure you do.” A passenger patted her stomach. “It’s almost impossible to walk by the grill, the deli or even the buffet without being tempted to stop and grab a snack.”
“An average passenger could eat up to eight meals a day, if they wanted,” Annette said.
Gloria’s jaw dropped. “Eight meals? Who can do that?”
“You would be surprised.” Annette showed them the prep area, the loading station, ending with the garnishment line where the staff added the finishing touches to the meal plates.
A woman timidly raised her hand.
Annette pointed at her. “Yes?”
“I noticed some trays have green covers.”
“Those dishes are for passengers who have food allergies and special diets.” Annette stepped over to a separate prep area,adjacent to the main one. “We have an entire staff in charge of special meals. Green is gluten-free, red is nut and shellfish allergies, blue is for dairy restrictions and so on.”
“Thank you. I’m glad I asked.”
“You’re welcome. Shall we tour the walk-in cooler and freezer?” Annette escorted the guests out of the galley.
While they waited, Millie tapped out a text to Nic, letting him know she would be arriving soon.
Nic:The elusive Millie. I haven’t heard from you all day.
Millie:I met Cousin Gloria for breakfast. She’s hanging out with me.
See you soon.Her husband added a heart emoji.
Millie replied with lovey-dovey eyes.
