Part 3

The ship had begun its course, with Hollow and Malachi taking turns at the helm, discussing directions and estimating the time of arrival. Half an hour later, Malachi was given a short break. He wandered through the ship until he stepped into the library, where I sat by the fireplace, lost in a book.

"Celeste, are you in here?" He called in a calm voice.

"I'm over here," I answered, saving my place before looking up.

He spotted me and walked over, smiling. "I thought you might be here. Hollow gave me ten minutes of free time—at least until he calls me back."

"That's nice," I said. "At least you get a moment to breathe."

We sat together on the sofa, talking quietly until Malachi's tone shifted. "Hey, Celeste?"

I met his eyes. "Yeah?"

"We've known each other for some time... and I've developed feelings for you. I wanted to tell you yesterday, but I waited until we were alone."

Heat rushed to my cheeks, and I laughed softly. "Really? You have feelings for me?"

"I do," he said, leaning closer. "You're cute, intelligent, and unafraid to be adventurous."

I smiled, leaning toward him. "I think you're attractive too, Malachi. I've felt the same way, but I was too shy to say it."

Sparks seemed to fly as our lips met. The kiss deepened, until Hollow's voice broke through the intercom: "Malachi, I need you back in the control room."

We pulled apart reluctantly. "Duty calls," he said, standing.

"Hopefully I'll see you before I head to bed," I replied.

"If not, I'll see you in the morning." He winked, kissed my cheek, and left.

I put my book away and headed to the kitchen. The staff greeted me warmly. "Tonight's menu is steak and potatoes," one announced.

"That sounds delicious," I said, taking a seat.

By the time dinner was served, the clock read 9:15 P.M. The stars glittered outside, unnoticed until now. As I ate, the hum returned faintly, vibrating through the ship. I laughed at myself. "The ship is coming alive," I whispered.

After finishing, I thanked the staff and returned to my cabin. On my bed lay a single rose and a note: "If you haven't gone to bed yet, meet me in the living room in ten minutes."

My heart skipped. I placed the rose and note on my vanity, changed into something casual but cute, brushed my hair, and added a touch of makeup. Then I made my way to the living room.

Malachi arrived soon after, smiling as he saw me waiting.

"Hey there, handsome," I teased. "I was wondering when you'd show up."

"Well, I'm here now," he said. "Hollow's taking over for the night, so I'm free until morning."

"At least you can enjoy the rest of the night," I replied.

He stepped behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist. "I'm glad I can spend it with you." His lips brushed my neck, sending shivers through me.

"Celeste... will you be mine?" he whispered.

"Yes," I said softly. "I'd love to be yours."

We turned to face each other, kissing passionately. The night unfolded in a way that left my heart racing and my thoughts spinning.

Later, we parted to our cabins. I lay in bed, replaying every moment, smiling at the thought of us being official now. My heart fluttered as sleep finally claimed me. The lamp beside me dimmed, and the ship carried us onward into the night.