AN - Distraction

You found an intimate bar for grownups that’s perfect. It’s small and dim, and although you won’t be doing any dancing here, at least it’s cozy. You sip a Mai Tai at the counter beside Ana, who drinks beer.

That big feast thing is going on in the huge ballroom, way at the other end of the ship. You were kind of looking forward to it, but you understand why you can’t be there. It’s too likely that Angela or Fareeha would spot you. This is fine too.

It’s just the two of you and the bartender, which is awesome. It’s the first time since coming on this cruise that it doesn’t feel busy and crowded. Maybe nobody even knows about this little bar. You turn around and look at the hallway outside. Nobody’s even walked past in forever.

The phone behind the bar rings, and the bartender picks it up. He frowns.

“Oh, great.” He hangs up and gives you and Ana an apologetic look. “Sorry, guys. We have to shelter in place.”

“Why?” you ask, stirring your drink. You and Ana were outside a few minutes ago and it was clear. It’s not like there’s a hurricane.

“Pirates again. They’re hijacking the ship.”

Your eyes pop open. “What? That’s a thing?”

“Afraid so.”

“Like Pirates of the Caribbean? Like an event?” you ask.

“No. For real. So we have to stay here. You’re not in any danger. They’re up at the feast,” the bartender says, pointing. “This happens a couple times a year. Nobody’s going to get hurt, but we have to be careful anyway. They have guns and stuff.”

You flinch as Ana’s empty glass hits the counter. She’s standing up.

Right… her daughter is up there.

“Oh shit,” you say.