fun.”
Steven thought Cherise looked almost sad when she’d said that, but the expression quickly dissipated. He told himself that it was only his imagination.
Chapter 3
Cherise took digital photos of historic St. John’s Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, stepping gently over the engraved marble tombstones covering the cathedral’s floor, marking the final resting places of knights.
Steven was following behind her, taking pictures with his camera. Every now and then, he would open a sketchbook and start drawing with intensity, absorbed by his vision.
He was clearly an art lover. Cherise soon discovered that they both shared a love for art history. They toured the Grand Master’s Palace, which served as the office of the president and the seat of the Maltese Parliament.
“Are you interested in seeing the Auberge de Castille?” Steven asked Cherise. “I read that it’s one of the finest architectural works here in Malta.”
“Sure, I’d like to check it out,” she responded. “You’re an architect, so you definitely can’t leave Malta without seeing it.”
“According to the guide, the building houses the office of the Prime Minister.”
Steven pulled Cherise closer to him as they neared a group of seedy-looking guys standing near an alley. He didn’t release her until they were back with other passengers from the ship.
When he placed his muscled arms around her, Cherise could only define it as feeling as if she’d come home. She felt safe with him.
Cherise received a text from Elle and said, “My cousins have had enough of history. They are going to Ta’Qali Handicrafts Village. They want to see the glass-blowing factory.”
“You’re sure you wouldn’t rather go with them?” Steven asked.
Cherise planted her hands on her hips. “Are you implying that since I’m a woman, I want to spend my day shopping?”
He laughed and held up his hands in defense of an attack. “Not at all. I just know that you’re on a family vacation, and I don’t want to keep you from spending time with them.”
“No, we’re going to the Auberge de Castille,” Cherise stated in a tone that brooked no argument. “They’re planning to spend the rest of afternoon soaking up the sun on the beach. I’ll meet them then.” She was enjoying her time with Steven. She could see her family anytime.
After touring the Auberge de Castille, they visited a nearby art gallery.
Cherise and Steven grabbed a bite to eat. After they finished, they strolled along the cobblestone streets toward the port.
“Malta is absolutely beautiful,” Cherise murmured. “The buildings here are nothing like I’ve seen before.”
Steven agreed as he finished off his drink. “This is more of an Arabic architecture. You need more than one day to really explore the city. I wish I could see more of the architectural design.”
“I think I’d like to come back here one day, but not on a cruise.” Cherise checked her watch. “I guess I need to head down to the beach for some family time. What are you getting ready to do?” She silently hoped that he would be willing to join her.
“I don’t have any plans,” Steven responded. “If I’m not imposing, I’d like to spend the rest of my day with you.”
She grinned. “I’m so glad you said that. Did you bring a swimsuit?”
He nodded. “I have one in my backpack. I’m always prepared.”
Cherise warmed beneath his gaze. Steven seemed almost too perfect, but then she had only known him for a couple of days. She knew that he lived in Los Angeles, too, and wondered briefly if they would stay in touch once they got home. She hoped so.
Cherise tried not to let the rivulets of water streaming down Steven’s face to his hairy chest distract her from all the beauty around her. He was a very sexy man indeed, she had to admit. When he caught her staring at him, he grinned knowingly.
Clearing her throat, she turned away.
“It looks like you two are really clicking,” Elle whispered in her ear.
“We’re enjoying ourselves, but I have no expectations beyond this cruise. We have a good time together, but it’s not like he wants a relationship.”
“Are you open to it, if he does?” Elle asked.
Cherise smiled. “I’ll take it day by day.”
Elle swam over to her husband while Cherise sought out Steven.
They got out of the water and sat down on towels.
Cherise and Steven talked about the new project he was working on and her desire to land the position as a senior counselor at the center.
“Watching you with your little cousins, I can tell you’re good with young people,” Steven said. “I think what you’re doing is great, Cherise.”
“I know from experience what they’re going through, so it’s easy for me to relate.” She picked up a handful of sand, relishing the grainy texture as it slid through her fingers.
Elle and Brennen walked out of the water dripping wet, and joined them twenty minutes later.
“So what did you buy when you guys went shopping earlier?” Cherise asked Elle.
“Believe it or not, I didn’t get a thing. Jillian picked up some stuff though. She left one boutique with two bags of shoes.”
An hour later, Steven stretched and yawned. “I’m tired, so I think I’m going to head on back to the boat and take a nap.” Brushing sand off of his swim trunks, he added, “I’ll see y’all later tonight.”
Cherise stood up to give Steven a hug. “I’ll see you later.”
“I’d be careful if I were you,” Ivy muttered as she straightened her hat. “You and Steven have been spending a lot of time together.”
“He’s a nice guy, Ivy,” Elle interjected. “Let Cherise enjoy herself. You should be doing the same thing. That guy Montel has been trying to get your attention from the moment we stepped on the ship.”
“Hmph,” Ivy uttered. “He can keep right on trying, but I’m not interested.”
Picking up her tote, Cherise said, “Ivy, I’m just having fun with a handsome man. I don’t have any illusions about anything. I’m here to have a good time on my vacation. You should try it.”
Ivy groaned and walked away, shaking her head.
Elle and Cherise laughed.
It was time for them to head back to the boat, so they gathered up towels, totes and children.
Inside the ship, Cherise followed Ivy into the suite.
