eleven

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Two days had passed since the incident with Colin, but he went on about his way like nothing ever happened. He reclaimed his possession over Julie, talked to anyone with that awful polished smile on his face, drank his liquor like it was water, meanwhile Nelson tried his best to keep him busy.

The ship had left Port Said and made its way through the Suez Canal, meaning we were on open water again. Somehow the thought of it suffocated me.

There was nowhere to run.

It was hard to find the time to talk to Julie. When we did find the time, it was always late at night, when Colin would go out for a game of cards and a drink.

Nelson tried to keep him company, making sure he wouldn’t cause another scene. So far, it’d worked.

It was right after dinner when I walked onto the upper deck. I hoped to catch the last glimpse of the sunset – it was one of those views that gave me a sense of joy.

I was lucky, the sun was just starting to go down and there was a perfect spot to watch it, comfortably on a bench. As I sat down though, I heard two voices close by.

The first one I heard sounded familiar, but I couldn’t quite place it, “… Investing in English businesses in Egypt is not just a matter of profit, but of strategic importance. With the Suez Canal facilitating trade between Europe and Asia, controlling the commerce through Egypt strengthens our global influence.”

A murmur of agreement followed his words. And I recognized his voice immediately; Colin. “That is precisely what I wanted to discuss with you, Andrew. The trade through Port Said is a goldmine. If we can strike a deal on coal and cotton, we will both benefit immensely.”

The other voice belonged to Andrew Clark. Of course, it did.

Andrew Clark replied, “You are thinking of a partnership?”

“Exactly,” Colin replied, his voice determined. “With your influence and my connections, we can control a significant portion of the market. It is a mutually beneficial arrangement.”

Andrew seemed to consider this for a moment. “It is an intriguing proposition. I have started some agreements in Port Said, so it should not cause any problems. The only thing I am concerned about are the locals.”

I heard Colin scoff at that last sentence. “They will do anything for a cut. It will not be a problem.”

Exploiting the locals like that? Trying to gain possession over the country of these people and the trade going through the Suez Canal? I couldn’t believe my ears. Nelson and Julie needed to know about this.

“Very well,” Clark said. “Let’s discuss this some more over a drink after Petra Scholz’ performance tonight, would not want to miss it.”

The mention of her reminded me Nelson had asked me to stop by before we’d go watch the performance as well. I then realized I’d missed the sunset, completely preoccupied by the eavesdropping I was doing. The dark glow did make it easier for me to sneak out without those two seeing me, so at least there was something beneficial about missing it.

As I reached Nelson's door, I knocked softly. A moment later, it swung open to reveal Nelson's kind face, his eyes crinkling with a welcoming smile.

“Ragne,” he greeted, stepping aside to let me in. “Come in. I've got a surprise for you.”

Curiosity piqued, I entered the cabin and noticed a package neatly wrapped in brown paper on the small table. Nelson closed the door behind me, his smile widening.

“I got this for you in Port Said,” he said, picking up the package and handing it to me. “I thought you might like it.”

I unwrapped the paper carefully, revealing a stunning dress. It was unlike anything I had ever worn, a rich midnight blue with delicate lace trim. The fabric felt luxurious under my fingers, and for a moment, I was speechless.

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