Page 46 of Dead in the Water

“That’s… smaller,” Lily said.

“Yes. I’m afraid Joyce and Keith drew the short straw. Not that it matters too much. We stay in hotels whenever we’re docked.”

“That makes sense,” Lily murmured. Not financially, but it really would be tight to all stay on the boat for long periods.

“Also, their cabin is extremely comfortable when you look at the one Russell’s in.” At the next door, Lily peaked inside at the single bed in extremely tight quarters.

“I see what you mean. But for one person, it’s not so bad.”

“Yes. I imagine he’ll move into Joseph’s cabin at some point. It is the captain’s cabin, after all.”

Lily made a noise of acknowledgement, but wasn’t entirely sure what to say. Apparently Russell was benefitting nicely from Joseph’s death.

“That’s it really.” Closing the door, Kerry gestured back towards the galley. “Not overly exciting, I’m afraid. The best bit is drinking champagne on deck without a care in the world.”

“Sounds like bliss.” Though Lily wasn’t sure about the carefree sentiment since her friend had died just a few days ago. Hopefully Kerry’s comment was meant in a more general sense.

“Speaking of which…” She sauntered over and opened the fridge. “How about we crack open another bottle?”

“I’m still going with this one.” Lily held up her full glass, then inwardly grimaced when she noticed Kerry had drained hers while giving the tour.

She eased the cork off without spilling a drop and filled her glass. “I don’t know about you,” she said. “But I’m ready for some sunbathing.”

Smiling weakly, Lily followed her back up onto the deck.

Chapter Twenty-One

On the daybedat the front of the boat, Kerry lifted her oversized sunhat to peer out at Lily. “It’s all a lot of scaremongering, this nonsense about skin damage. The vitamin D is good for you. And the sun will do far less damage than the chemicals in that sunscreen.”

“I burn easily,” Lily said, continuing to rub lotion into her legs. “And being burnt to a crisp is painful. Also, red isn’t really my colour.”

“You should gradually build a tan,” Kerry said. “That’s the best way. Milk white isn’t your colour either.”

“I’m not milk white.” Maybe she was currently, but that was only a result of being a little too liberal with the sunscreen. Also, because she was beside Kerry, who was showing off her deep bronze tan in a leopard print swimsuit. Lily had opted to remain in her shorts and T-shirt, mostly because of Russell and his leery gaze.

“Where are you going?” Kerry sat up and looked questioningly at Vic, who headed towards the galley steps.

“For a nap,” he grumbled. “If that’s all right with you?”

Kerry sighed. “We’ve just dropped anchor. Joyce and Keith are making lunch. Why don’t you wait and eat?”

“Not hungry,” he muttered, then disappeared below with his laptop tucked under his arm.

“He won’t sleep,” Kerry said, settling back down with her hat shielding her eyes. “He’ll be working down there. The man never stops.”

“He’s not retired?” Lily asked.

“In theory,” Kerry said. “He passed the business over to our sons, but he can’t let go of it. Which is convenient for my lazy children who are happy to act incompetent so Vic continues to do most of the work.” Her head whipped to Russell who lounged at the side of the boat. “See if Joyce needs help with the food. I’ve no idea what’s taking her so long.”

“Here’s a crazy idea,” he drawled. “Why don’t you help her?”

“I’m entertaining our guest.” She waved a hand in Lily’s direction.

“I can see if Joyce needs help,” Lily said, happy to have a reason to escape Kerry for a few minutes.

“Stay where you are,” Kerry barked. “Russell will go.”

Lily was already up and moving. “I need to nip to the toilet, anyway.”

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