Page 35 of The Christmas Star

‘Where are we going?’ I’d already had one surprise too many thanks to our not so delightful sleeping arrangements, and I dreaded to think what was next.

He gathered up our things and headed for the door. ‘You’ll see.’

CHAPTER 25

Taking two steps to Theo’s one, I struggled to keep up as he led us to goodness knew where. My belly rumbled as I walked and ready for a good feed, I hoped we were headed for the restaurant. My spirits lifted as we approached the glass window that separated us from numerous diners, but while I slowed in my step and ogled people’s plates, Theo eagerly marched on by.

After hearing about Mum’s slip road shenanigans, I told myself the bar would be a good second best. A brandy and Baileys would calm my nerves over Mum’s driving while easing my guilt about how I’d treated her. However, much to my disappointment, Theo ignored that too.

‘This way,’ he said instead, pausing only for a moment to chivvy me along.

He led us back through reception, speeding past Santa’s post box and onto a corridor lined with doors. Stopping in front of one, he pulled a key card from his pocket. ‘Don’t say I never do anything for you.’ Using the card, he swiped the lock mechanism. ‘After you,’ he said, with a chivalrous sweep of his hand.

Stepping into the room, a smile spread across my face and my body automatically relaxed. Bunkbeds weren’t usually my thing but having expected to spend the night in a chair, the upgrade was more than welcome. Glancing around, there was a wardrobe, a small round table at which sat two blue fabric-covered chairs, and another door that when opened, revealed an en suite shower room which included towels. My smile turned into a grin. Apart from a well-stocked fridge and mini bar, the room had everything a weary traveller like me could want. ‘I thought you said all the cabins were booked?’

‘It pays to check at reception. Sometimes you strike lucky thanks to a cancellation or a no-show.’

‘Bagsy the bottom.’ I leapt toward the lower bunk and staking my claim, dumped my handbag on its mattress. Stiff from being stuck in a Smart car for hours on end, I doubted I’d be able to climb up to the top bed and if by some miracle I were to manage it, I definitely wouldn’t get back down.

There was a knock at the door and cocking my head, I wondered who it could be.

Theo gave me a knowing grin and stepping forward to answer, it appeared he wasn’t yet done with the surprises.

‘Votre commande, monsieur.’ A young female staff member held out a tray on which sat two plates of food.

Both me and my stomach had never been so grateful.

She smiled brightly. ‘Bon appétit, monsieur.’ Turning her attention to me, she scrunched up her face and much to my bewilderment, giggled. ‘Madame.’

‘Merci beaucoup,’ Theo said as, still chuckling, she went on her way.

‘What was that about?’ I asked.

‘What was what?’ Theo closed the door with his foot and placing the tray on the table, lifted off the plate covers in an exaggerated fashion. ‘Voila!’

On one, sat a portion of creamy buckwheat risotto with parmesan cheese and cabbage, and on the other, pork ribs with a crusted polenta tart and caramelised vegetables. My gaze went from our dinner options to Theo. ‘They both look good. I’m not sure which to choose.’ I stared at both plates trying to decided. ‘How about we both have some of each?’

Theo grinned as he handed me my cutlery. ‘I was hoping you’d say that. The risotto was the safe bet should I need to swallow without chewing.’

I tilted my head. ‘Very funny.’

As I sat down, Theo halved our food servings and handed me my plate.

‘I didn’t know ferries did room service.’ Digging in, I swooned.

‘They don’t.’

I looked at Theo confused.

He pressed his lips together as if not sure he should tell me. However, thanks to my stare he quickly relented and his shoulders relaxed. ‘I told them we were heading off on honeymoon and as this is our first night of wedded bliss…’

My eyes widened. ‘You did what? No wonder that young woman giggled, she thinks we’re about to….’ I recalled Theo’s hand on my knee, refusing to let my imagination fire up. ‘I knew she was acting odd. Why would you say that?’

‘I get it. I shouldn’t have and I’m sorry. But we’re both hungry and tired and I don’t know about you, but I don’t have the energy for queues and crowds. I just want to eat, shower and get into bed.’

Being honest, I couldn’t blame him for wanting as little fuss as possible. The last twenty-four hours had been frantic, and understandably the man was knackered. I’d at least had a little sleep whereas Theo had had none.

He raised an eyebrow. ‘If it helps, I have a stash of coconut pyramids for dessert?’