Chapter 288

Christina's POV "You've really changed," Lea said, turning to look at me. "When you said you wanted to go on a cruise, I thought you were joking." "Yet here we are." I stood at the railing, watching the Mediterranean sunset. The September evening painted the sea in deep violets and golds, the horizon glowing as the sun descended. Not everyone had joined the ball. On deck, groups of passengers mingled and laughed. Some captured selfies against the pink sky; others pointed excitedly as dolphins leaped from the water. Music drifted faintly from the ballroom, but out here, the dominant sounds were laughter, crashing waves, and camera clicks. Lea inhaled deeply. "It's beautiful. Thanks for bringing me out here." I remained silent, my mind elsewhere. "We should have stayed and said hello to Christina," she added, clearly testing my reaction. "I will," I replied flatly. "Just not now." I would speak to Christina once I had finished with Lea. The thought of Christina's face propelled me away f