Page 99 of The Bitter Rival

“Thank god. I’d hate to have to tell Austin to just forget all that.”

Sebastian

Six Months Later

“Austin, look over there.” I point in the direction of a bald eagle sitting atop a tall Spruce tree.

He quickly turns his binoculars and then lowers them when he can’t focus them quickly enough. Austin has seemed more excited and receptive to his surroundings since boarding this cruise than I’ve ever witnessed. At first, I was worried it was anxiety due to the crowd size during check-in and the muster drill. But in hindsight, I think it’s more at the experience being so new.

I contacted the cruise line to advise them Austin has some special needs, and they’ve been nothing but accommodating. It doesn’t hurt that I’ve booked the largest suite on the ship. He has his own space, and the stateroom attendants have provided a place for Austin to draw and even paint a little if he so desires. I’ve told him, no painting on walls on this trip. I don’t want to get banned from returning.

Alaska’s provided the perfect backdrop for our first cruise. I’m thrilled I could walk onboard the ship without the use of braces or a cane. My strength has gradually returned over the last few months, and I’m back to working out, yoga, meditation, and reducing my stress through lots and lots of hot sex with my devoted girl.

Sitting on the veranda, there’s been a notable drop in temperature since we departed Vancouver. Bella steps outside, pulling a wrap around her shoulders before sitting down in my lap. We could’ve taken a cruise to a warmer climate, but I’m feeling better and thought this would be a more exciting backdrop for Austin’s creativity. The days of drinking by the pool and checking out my next conquest are over.

I gaze over my companions and can’t stop the megawatt smile that crosses my face. How things have changed. No longer am I the shark looking to claim his next mate. No more successful surgical career. No longer do I live an ordered life, preferring instead to let Bella steer this ship.

I’m also no longer watching the world go by without being a part of it. I’m surrounded by a dog that sheds, a child who paints on walls, and a woman who tells me how things are going to be. My whole world is sitting right here with me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The End.