A nervous wave struck her – she usually had enough time to research all the political and social profiles of her guests. But, she barely had any scoop on the Prince but their first meeting didn’t go so great. He seemed to peer into her soul, and she didn’t have any information on him. And, she was usually able to get additional information from their past hosts – to get to know their passions and temptations.

Years in this industry had taught her several tricks— especially when you have bad people looking for you, always knowing where you are. She had taken several lessons from her less than savory friends.

Each time someone came aboard – they felt isolated and empowered. Usually, their secrets would come out – and she would be the only want to support their delicate affairs. She ran back to her room to do her due diligence.

She looked over his social profiles on-line. The man was excellent at everything.

He was almost a goody two shoes – the only real son and heir to the entire country. He was philanthropic and kind, and very giving to charities – but, the tabloids had pointed out, he had a sweet tooth for many, many women.

She could only guess what kind of requests he would make. All of the photos that he had on-line of him were usually accompanied by thin and beautiful women. On his arms, were draped models and actresses and royalty.

Her cell rang.

Veronica looked at it, freezing.

The number was unknown—and that filled her with dread. It was a text message.

She swiped it open, gulping.

---

I hear you are coming this way—make sure you're prepared.

-M

---

She cringed, fear ran through her. Her hands began to shake immediately while she set the phone down. She took a deep breath—how did he know she was coming? She damned them all. They ran her life—they owned her. She thought to the safe in her room, at least she had it this time. That was a mistake she would never make again.

She took a deep breath, trying to push away the fear—she hated disembarking there, she knew he would find her.

There was a knock at the door.

She looked up from her desk, to see Dexter's smile beaming back at her.

He was the youngest on board – but he was one hell of a bartender. Luckily, she had picked him up several months ago – his warm demeanor had made a good impression on her – and he had become a good friend.

Good thing for her too – his interests lied only with men, making him an excellent confidant for her growing problems as her wedding day got near.

He beamed at her, "Did you hear who's on board?"

He practically bounced up and down. Of course she knew, but Dexter loved the theatrics.

Veronica chuckled, and smiled at him, "Don't tell me – are you thinking of seducing the Prince?"

Dexter pretend to faint against the door – throwing his hand to his forehead.

"I'm sure the Prince has a soft spot for someone like me," he swooned.

Veronica couldn't help but laugh – it really would be anyone’s dream to be seduced by a Prince. She shook her head at Dexter.

"Maybe you can use your magic with your drinks to somehow win him over to your side."

Immediately, Dexter's eyes glistened – as if the idea had made his night.

He suddenly giggled, "Girl – you know that they always fall for you instead –" he pretended to swoon, "I can't even win against you."

She blushed and told him thanks, she had plenty of guys throw themselves at her during the trips – but she knew, that they only wanted a temporary thing. She needed security – she needed a commitment.

She would miss Dexter, that's for sure.

He seemed to read her mind.

"Only two more weeks girl – and then you're out of our hair," He smiled a soft but sad smile.

She shrugged – trying to act like it was no big deal, but she could feel the tears behind her eyes.

"I'm sure – I'm sure and I'm going to find life treating me well out there." She averted her eyes from him, she wasn't so sure.

She knew he would be looking at her with caring.

"You know – you're always welcome to stay here with us – in case it doesn't work out."

Her eyes went to him immediately – although it was what she wanted, her life simply didn't work out that way.

And, she didn't want anyone to make her second-guess.

Her eyes automatically scanned her office – she had so many memories. She had dozens of photos, from different aspects of her journey.

Some of her photos were of famous celebrities, some of world renowned gurus, and others – simply her friends and family. She had so many memories on the ship – it had been a real taste of freedom, one that she hadn't felt in a long time. She didn’t even think of her life back home. She recalled it often but always pushed it to the side. Her mother worked in the bustling bay area, and Veronica was raised by only her. Then, she had met Duncan, and her life changed forever. And so, Veronica was not exactly thrilled to ever think of home, and how her life had turned out. But now, she had to face reality. She had to face the mistakes that riddled her past.

Her stomach lurched.

"I don't see why he's making you go home," Dexter said with a frown. He picked his fingernails as he did when he talked about something uncomfortable, looking at them with intensity.

"Men like him," Veronica repeated what Brian had told her, "need a stable woman – a normal family life, with kids and a white picket fence."

Dexter rolled his eyes, "How sweet – a real Stepford wife."

His voice slathered with sarcasm.

Veronica felt the same pang of guilt her stomach – as if she was betraying herself – but this is the only way.

She closed her laptop, finally getting up so she can attend to the Prince and his crazy horde of women.

She had to admit that she didn’t want to be an ordinary woman, just someone who was quiet and listened to every word her husband said. But, as captain, Brian had been the cream of the crop. He liked her and he had the money to prove it. She felt like ag gold digger, but really, she also felt like their relationship was mutual. They both wanted something.

She wrapped an arm around Dexter, who smiled at her gently, "I'm gonna miss you."

She nodded, trying to fight back tears.

"I'm gonna miss all of you too."