The ship’s largest room had been heavily decorated for the occasion, although what occasion that was exactly was beyond their knowledge. Draperies and fancy tables were set about, details of gold easily caught the eye, food and drink at their reach. A band was playing some sappy tune, and a few couples were dancing to it on the space reserved for that purpose; but they- oh, they were not dancing. They were sitting by a table, drinking and laughing.

She, a model, dazzling even in the simple dress she wore, invited by a friend.

Him, a navy officer, a knight in shining armor with his slick white uniform.

Had the friend not retired to dance with his superior’s daughter, leaving her alone, perhaps they would have never met.