Page 16 of I Dated a Golden Vampire
“Then, have a good trip.It’s a nice ship.”
“Wait, where are your quarters?”
“Mid-ship.I can’t afford much.I was still in my apprenticeship when I had the accident.The medical treatments took the rest of the money.It was a good thing Zera called me today.I leave the day after tomorrow to head home.”
Cabree blinked.“Why?”
“Because that is all I could book.Have a nice day.Get some rest.”She nodded.“If you need me again, contact Zera.”
“Waterdance?”
“Yes?”
“Thank you.”
“You are welcome.”Pria nodded and left, heading back to the crowded buffet so she could find some food she was willing to deal with later.
* * * *
Cabree unlocked hercomputer, looked up Waterdance’s file, and gasped.She was right.Her finances were trashed, but she had booked seven days on the cruise in the cheapest room available.No extras and a minimal food package.
Cabree contacted the concierge and made some arrangements.
Zera called as soon as the line was free.“Cabree, are you all right?”
“Yes.I am fine.He just decided he wanted to keep me, and I wasn’t certain what that would entail.Thanks for sending Waterdance.”
“Pria.She isn’t Waterdance anymore.She managed?”
“She managed and suggested to Denog that if he wanted to see me again, he could book me on the layovers in the islands.”
Zera blinked.“Isn’t she clever?”
“She really is.I am upgrading her and asking her if she wants to stay with me for the full cruise.”
“Right, well, as regards your escort status, Lord Denog gave you a glowing review and a hefty bonus.”
There was a knock on her door, and she got up and walked over, seeing Pria on the other side.She opened the door and beckoned her.“I am just on with Zera.”
“Yes, I was told they were moving my quarters.Why?”
“Because I want someone to hang out with?”Cabree smiled.“Because I had friends and family living on that coastline.Because your teammates were assholes?”
“So, you work for Z-Tech.”
“Yes.Well, sort of.”
Zera snorted.“Well, Cabree, you are fully checked out as an escort.Other patrons may try and interest you.”
“Um, do I have to?”
“If Pria agrees, you will have a bodyguard at all times, on dates.”
Cabree looked to the woman who was standing on the balcony and staring at the open ocean.“You will ask her.I just want to offer her a stress-free vacation.After this, I am taking her shopping and am changing my breakfast and dinner reservations.”
“Why?”
“Because I am in the fancy restaurant at a table for one.”
