In Bond 1
Star Cruise was the name. It was a luxurious and stylish cruise ship from mainland China. According to circulating news, the ship, which had a capacity of about 3, 400 passengers in 1, 675 cabins, was said to have been built at the Meyer shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The luxurious ship was approximately 336 meters long and 40 meters wide, and was expected to reach speeds of over 23 knots.
Equipped with the claim of being environmentally friendly, Star Cruise also boasted several other interesting features. These included diesel-electric pod propulsion, hydrodynamic improvements, and various other energy-saving measures.
Not only was the environment a focus, but also passenger comfort. Many special features were presented to create an unforgettable comfortable atmosphere for those who stepped on board. With an interactive communication system and extensive stage equipment, there was plenty of entertainment to accompany the voyage.
There were at least thirty-five restaurants and bars available on Star Cruise. In addition, indoor facilities included a theater, movie theater, salon, spa, fitness center, game room, bowling alley, rock climbing park, and a shopping mall featuring several world-renowned brands.
Among these various features, however, the 145 suites stood out as the main highlight. They offered luxurious amenities, including an exclusive swimming pool. So, it was no wonder that nearly two thousand crew members were needed to provide quality service to each and every passenger.
With these luxurious features and facilities, it was no wonder that Star Cruise became a favorite. It became a cruise ship that was familiar to the upper-class individuals who enjoyed the glamorous atmosphere of the sea. A cruise ship that certainly not just anyone could board, let alone hold events on board.
Certainly, among the few individuals who fell into the “not just anyone” category was the Morales family. As one of the conglomerate families with an unparalleled company in Oceana, renting the ship for their heir’s wedding event was not a difficult task.
It was the day. The day Garrett and Elice finally got married. Sailing around the waters of Singapore, they exchanged vows in front of all the witnesses present.
The procession was indeed private. Reserved only for the closest family members, while the invited guests enjoyed their time in separate rooms. With entertainment, of course.
Wearing a white dress designed by a famous designer, Elice looked truly captivating. Her exotic Oceana skin made her look stunning in the eyes of everyone who looked at her. Especially Garrett. So much so that he could hardly take his eyes off her when he had to shake hands with Elice’s guardian during the procession.
The echoes of gratitude rang out as Garrett and Elice finally became husband and wife. In the midst of their happiness, the newlyweds made sure to greet their family members.
Daphne was the first person they approached. The elderly woman looked luxurious in her maroon dress. She appeared healthy, fresh, and genuinely happy as the couple approached her. It was Garrett who greeted them first.
“Congratulations, Garrett. You’re finally married.”
Regardless of the origin of their congratulations, it was obvious that Daphne could not contain her emotions. The happiness she felt was truly genuine and heartfelt. After all, no grandmother could be anything but overjoyed to witness her grandchild’s wedding, including Daphne.
Garrett hugged Daphne. Despite his past perceptions of his grandmother, Garrett found himself seeing the elderly woman from a different perspective. Ultimately, this led to a new approach to assessing, understanding, and interacting with Daphne.
“Thank you, Nana. Pray for us that we may always be happy, Nana.”
Daphne nodded. “Of course, Garrett. Of course.”
Unlike Garrett, Elice remained cautious around Daphne. It was not intentional, but rather a natural consequence of recent events, when she was shocked to learn that Daphne was behind the explosive article about her and Garrett.
For Elice, Daphne was an unpredictable character. And because of this incident, it was understandable that Elice would err on the side of caution. In front of her family, however, she managed to maintain her composure admirably, especially in the sacred atmosphere of the wedding. Tears welled in her eyes as Daphne hugged her.
“Stay with Garrett, Elice. No matter what happens, never leave him. Be a strong woman,” Daphne whispered. “Be a strong woman for Garrett and for yourself.”
In Daphne’s embrace, Elice was stunned. At first glance, it might have sounded like typical advice given by parents to their newly married children. But Elice didn’t take it that way.
Daphne released her hug but did not let go of Elice completely. Her hands squeezed her granddaughter-in-law’s fingers, she looked into her eyes and nodded once.
*
About an hour later, the reception for the guests began. Elice and Garrett had changed their clothes, wearing modern outfits that complemented each other perfectly.
Looking like a princess in the modern world, Elice wore a wedding dress made by a famous designer. It had a simple yet elegant design, with a layered mermaid neckline that caught everyone’s eye. The uniqueness of the gown undoubtedly made it the center of attention, especially with its tube top style that accentuated Elice’s sleek shoulders.
Completing the ensemble was a bridal veil with a gold floral motif that added to Elice’s stunning appearance. She truly became the queen of the day.
“You really know how to pick a woman, Garrett. She’s really beautiful. You’re very lucky.”NôvelDrama.Org content.
This was one of the compliments Elice received. As the banquet went on and the invited guests enjoyed themselves, some of them took the time to offer their congratulations.
Garrett nodded, accepting the praise with a broad smile on his face. “I believe I am indeed lucky.”
For these words were not just empty talk. Garrett’s expression said it all. Even though Wilda and Rita were sitting at a distance, they could both see it clearly.
“Garrett really loves Elice. Isn’t that right?” Rita asked Wilda, the older sister, who could not stop looking at the happiness radiating from her sister’s face. She smiled and nodded once.
“I hope their love will last a long time,” Wilda prayed. “Forever.”
*