Surprise at sea


(ARIELLE'S POV)

The drive to the Harrison beach house was quiet and a bit long. The driver barely spoke, keeping the ride uneventful. After an hour, we arrived at a massive iron gate, which opened immediately as the car stopped. The driver pulled into the driveway and parked. "Here, let me help you," he offered, gesturing to my bag after we alighted.

I handed it over with a smile. "Thank you."

As we walked, I took in the breathtaking surroundings. The beach house stood amidst towering palms swaying in the cool night breeze, the sound of waves creating a soothing melody in the background. The air carried a mix of salt, sand, and blooming flowers, while the moonlight cast an ethereal glow over the scene.

Soon, the ship came into view, and it was nothing short of stunning: a sleek, white vessel with Harrison's family name engraved on its side.

The driver helped me aboard, where a group of smiling crew members greeted me with polite bows.

"Welcome aboard, Ma'am," one of them said, taking my bag as the driver bid me goodbye.

I wandered further, taking in the grandeur. The lounge had floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic ocean views, plush furniture arranged around a central coffee table, and a gleaming bar stocked with fine wines.

Past it, the dining room featured a long polished table under sparkling crystal chandeliers, while the walls displayed old-school artworks.

Further exploration revealed a sleek kitchen-likely my base for this culinary mission-followed by a gym, spa, and even a small movie theater.

The ship was a masterpiece, and I could already feel the weight of the evening's expectations settling in.

I could have spent hours exploring the ship's endless wonders, but I reminded myself there was time for that later. For now, I needed to meet Margaux. With that thought, I turned to retrace my steps-only to nearly trip as a chorus of loud "Surprise!" erupted behind me. My heart leapt to my throat as I spun around, completely caught off guard.

"Hi, Miss Meyers! Long time no see!" Margaux greeted cheerfully, grinning from ear to ear.

"Yeah, yeah! Long time no see!" chimed in Ashley, waving dramatically. "You really should call me more often, girl! And by the way, are you on some crazy diet? You really look like you need a good meal!"

Before I could process their unexpected presence, a familiar deep voice cut through the chaos. "Arielle," Dwayne drawled, his foxy smile practically dazzling. "It's a good night, isn't it?"

rushed forward, arms outstretched. "Hi, Mommy! I told you I'd see you soon!" Maverick giggled as he

short-circuiting. What.

my mother, who stood off to the side, laughing

I managed to

for answers, but my mouth

preview," she admitted, clasping her hands together. "We've been planning a little... surprise party for you. When Ashley first mentioned the idea, I wasn't sure it would work, but clearly,

party?

stared blankly at her as realization dawned. My birthday. Two days from now.

with a helpless smile. "You're so stunned, it almost makes me regret

I exclaimed, "When did you

a few hours ago," she said, holding me tightly. "Ashley told

turned to Maverick and Meredith, narrowing my eyes. "How did

scheme. "Uncle Dwayne picked us up

pieces falling into place. So the driver who brought me had been part of this evil plan all along, deliberately taking the long route so everyone could

at all," I said slowly, shaking my head in disbelief. "You all kidnapped me for

"Guilty

all unbelievable," I said, shaking my head in disbelief, though a warm smile tugged at my lips. I couldn't believe they had gone to so much effort-just to surprise me.

raised an eyebrow, amused. "Yes, that's true. That part wasn't a lie, so you can rest easy. But seriously, Arielle,

growing. "Nice," I whispered, letting the relief settle

Ashley stepped closer, her

mix of caution

are you upset with us? I'm sorry. We just

that we didn't

but I

up as I burst out, "Ah, pretending to be mad always works like a

you!" she gasped, laughing as she lightly smacked my

I stilkneed to call my

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