Mr. Holloway smiled.

“That’s wonderful. Claire, you must be delighted.”

Ryan looked at me expectantly.

“Tell him, sweetheart. This opportunity gives our family everything we need.”

I set down my fork.

“Mr. Holloway, may I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“Are employees allowed to become romantically involved with passengers while they’re working aboard your ships?”

Ryan’s smile disappeared.

“Claire.”

Gerald cleared his throat.

“This is hardly appropriate dinner conversation.”

But Mr. Holloway was already looking concerned.

“Why do you ask?”

I placed my phone on the table.

“Because my husband told me something yesterday, and I believe you should hear it.”

Ryan leaned forward.

“Don’t do this.”

I pressed play.

His own voice filled the room.

“It was a few women. They were passengers, for goodness’ sake. We had some fun, and that was it.”

The recording ended.

Silence settled over the dining room.

Mr. Holloway slowly turned toward Ryan.