Read Online First Mates by Cecelia Dowdy - Free Book Online

rain finally stopped and the remainder of the day passed in a whirlwind of activity. She frantically tried to pack as much adventure into the small amount of time they had left on the ship. While spending time with Winston, she discovered little things about him. He loved his steak well done. He was passionate about his job and he hated the financial situation of lots of African-Americans. “It’s just a shame that so many African-Americans are not taught good budgeting and investing skills,” he admitted later that day.
    Winston played in the ship’s Ping-Pong tournament. He earned first prize—free pictures from the photo gallery. The ship’s photographer had followed passengers like a shadow during the cruise, taking candid shots. Rainy and Winston walked to the gallery to choose which shots they wanted for the prize. “I can understand what you mean about the financial situation of African-Americans,” she said, gazing at the photos. “I want to do a series of workshops for the teens at my church about that subject.”
    He glanced through the pictures lining the walls. “Really? When are you doing this?”
    She giggled. “You know how things can be when dealing with church folks. Things have been disorganized at my church lately, and so far I haven’t found anybody to help me with the project. I don’t think I can handle it by myself.”
    They continued to scan the walls of pictures. “Really? Well, I’d be more than happy to help. I’ve always wanted to try to do something like that for the community. I think it’s a good idea.” He paused and brushed her shoulder. “You’ve got a pretty good head on your shoulders.” His deep voice was like a caress and waves of pleasure swiped through her as she enjoyed the enticing scent of his cologne.
    He pulled a photo from the shelf. “Hey, look at this one.” She gazed at the candid shot of their dinner date. Their profiles glowed as they leaned toward one another at the table, before starting their meal. Rainy couldn’t recall the last time she’d looked so pretty in a picture. “I think I’m going to have extra copies made of this one. I’m going to always keep this picture,” he promised.
    She stepped away and gave him a guarded look. “Do you really mean that?”
    â€œSure. I’m going to show it to my brother as soon as we get to Miami. And the next time I visit my parents, I’ll show them, too.” His hazel eyes glowed as he looked at her.
    Finally, too soon, evening arrived. Rainy strolled through a myriad of passageways and stairwells as bittersweet memories of her first cruise played through her mind.
    As couples strolled along the ship, she realized howmuch Winston had monopolized her time. He was the sole passenger she’d met at sea, and she didn’t get a chance to mingle with other passengers.
    Later that night, she pulled several colorful dresses from her closet. Scrutinizing each selection, she decided on the most appealing dress in her wardrobe. After showering and dressing, she plugged in her curling iron while deciding on the most appealing style for her hair. When Winston knocked on the door, she moved so fast, she almost burned her hand on the hot iron.
    When she opened the door, he gave her a brief hug. “Are you ready?” he whispered in her ear.
    â€œAren’t you a bit early?”
    He released her and sat on the bed. “Nope, I’m on time.” He pointed to the clock. “You only have a few minutes to get ready.”
    She returned to the bathroom and continued to curl her hair. “I’m sorry. I took my time getting ready and I wasn’t paying attention to the clock.”
    â€œWhy? You’re always ready on time. You’re not hungry for dinner?”
    She took a half step into the bedroom. “I want to go to dinner and I don’t want to.”
    He furrowed his