“Blue Horizon Cruises,” Ryan said proudly. “Top-tier. Isn’t your dad in something related to ships? Maybe he’s heard of them.”
A small spark ran through me.
“I’ve heard of them,” I said.
I took out my phone slowly, still smiling. I could feel Margaret watching me, irritation building.
“What are you doing?” she asked sharply.
“Calling the company,” I replied calmly. “Just to check something.”
Ethan looked at me, confused.
The call connected quickly.
“Blue Horizon Cruises headquarters, good evening,” a professional voice answered.
“Hi, Megan,” I said. “This is Claire Whitmore. Could you connect me to the CEO, please?”
There was a brief pause.
“Of course, Miss Whitmore. One moment.”
Margaret frowned.
“CEO?” she repeated under her breath.
Then my father’s voice came through, warm and familiar.
“Claire? Everything alright?”
I held Margaret’s gaze.
“Hi, Dad. Everything’s fine. I just need your help with a reservation.”
The tension around the table tightened.
“A reservation?” he repeated.
I took a steady breath.
“I need you to cancel a booking. Caribbean cruise, departing Saturday from Miami. Balcony suite. Under the names Margaret Dawson, Ethan Dawson, and Ryan Dawson.”
Ethan nearly choked on his drink.