Titanic Bound by Destiny

Chapter 19: A Glimmering Sunset

April 14th, 1912. (6:45pm)

After his enlightening conversation with Wallace Hartley, Nicholas dedicated the rest of his day to the peaceful company of his cherished books. The second-class library was a perpetual sanctuary with polished wood and shelves filled with volumes. Settled in his usual cosy nook by the window, the gentle murmur of conversation surrounded Nicholas, the distant hum of the engines, and the occasional clink of tea cups, all creating a soothing backdrop for his afternoon of reading. A steward would occasionally refresh his drink; his glass always seemed full. He immersed himself in the science fiction novel; his newfound interest in the genre had kept him enthralled for the past few days, thanks to the ship's extensive selection; the books seemed never-ending. He made a mental note that he had to sign up for a New York library immediately once they got there. The thought of him and Sebastian opening a bookshop in the future filled him with anticipation and excitement.

His peaceful reading was briefly interrupted when Connor burst into the library. The young man's energy starkly contrasted with the space's quietude. Connor scanned the room, his eyes alight with a specific purpose. No matter what the time of day was, no matter the situation. Connor always seemed to be powered by an engine that never ceased. He wondered where he got the energy to be energetic. Whatever the case was, it showed that the man always had a smile and a carefree attitude. If you were having a bad day, spending time near Connor would surely lift your spirits; his bumbling, easygoing nature was infectious. "Hey, Nicholas! Have you seen Adelaide by any chance?" he asked, his voice a little breathless as if he'd been searching for a while. "No, I haven't seen her today," Nicholas replied, bookmarking his page and looking up curiously. "Something urgent?" "Just trying to find her for a quick chat. Nothing urgent. She's probably caught up somewhere," Connor replied with a wave of his hand, already backing away. "I'll catch her later," he added, flashing a quick grin. Connor was gone as quickly as he had appeared, his departure leaving a small ripple in the otherwise calm atmosphere of the library. He was never one for sitting around.

Nicholas returned to his book with a soft chuckle, amused by Connor's fleeting whirlwind presence. Sometime later, he decided it was time for a light supper. It was true that he could make his way down to the second-class dining saloon for a larger meal, but he was not that peckish after his hearty breakfast and only wanted something light to whet the appetite. So, he settled for a simple but filling sandwich with a cup of warm lemon tea from a passing steward. The simple meal was delightful, the sandwich freshly made with crisp lettuce and thick slices of tomato that complemented the Savory ham nestled between the bread. Even the sandwiches on Titanic were heavenly. He spent the rest of the day reading and sipping the tea the stewards made and brought to him. It was a most relaxing existence, and after the last few days, he hoped the next couple of days would be more soothing.

As the afternoon light waned, Nicholas was surprised to find a small note discreetly placed on his table. He immediately recognised Sebastian's precise handwriting and felt warmth as he read the message inviting him to watch the sunset together. Nicholas would have to explain what had happened with Chester, but beyond this, the invitation was warm and proof that Sebastian had not doubted them during the day. Outside the window, the golden glow of the setting sun felt more prominent than before. With not a cloud in the sky, the setting sun was allowed to illuminate every inch of Titanic in her golden glow. With anticipation lighting his steps, Nicholas gathered his belongings and approached the ship's stern. The corridors were quieter in the late afternoon, with many passengers preparing for dinner or relaxing in their cabins. Reaching the stern, Nicholas found Sebastian already there, leaning against the railing with a serene expression, his gaze fixed on the horizon. Nicholas noted it was the first time Sebastian was at their meeting spot before he was, a sign of the changing times. "Thought I'd find you here," Nicholas said, his voice carrying a note of affection.