The Royal Princess Cruise shimmered under the moonlight, its deck crowded with tourists admiring the night view. Their gazes instinctively drifted toward the striking figure standing by the port.
The ruby-red silk gown cascaded over her curves, its high waist accentuating endless legs. Pearl earrings swayed gently with each step as her elegant updo revealed a graceful neckline.
Simplicity never looked so devastating.
"Isabella gasped. "Now that's the Crimson Serpent we know! You've dressed like a nun for three years—what a waste of perfection."
Crimson Serpent was Sophia Sullivan's codename during missions.
She used to adore bold styles until Liam Winston sneered they were vulgar. The man had coldly demanded she mimic Chloe Evans' wardrobe—virginal whites from dresses to accessories.
Even cooking habits had to mirror Chloe's.
Sophia kept telling herself he'd remember their childhood promise eventually.
Instead, she got the Winston family's verdict: "You can't force affection."
A self-deprecating smile touched her lips.
"You're right. Being myself feels better."
She didn't notice Liam boarding with Chloe several decks away.
Lily Lowell fawned behind them. "Miss Evans! The young master prepared this surprise cruise specially for your return!"
Chloe ducked her head. "This is too extravagant. People will talk."
Liam tightened his grip on her hand. "I'm divorced. Let them."
———
The third-floor ballroom transported guests to vintage Paris, crystal chandeliers scattering prismatic light over the pulsating dance floor.
Isabella shoved a keycard into Sophia's palm.
"Eight male models—all vetted and gorgeous—waiting in your suite."
Sophia arched a brow. "I'm here for the perfumer."
"Breeze Perfumes' team arrives later." Isabella winked. "Long night ahead. Don't waste it."
She gestured toward a blond man blowing her kisses.
"I'll catch up with you after conquering that."
Sophia pocketed the card with an eye roll.
"Meet me at the starboard deck."
Disinterested in the models, she ordered tequila and drifted toward the open-air deck. Salt-kissed breezes carried distant lighthouse beams.
The peace shattered abruptly.
"Pretty lady drinking alone? Let us keep you company."
Sophia glanced up at a pudgy man with a gold-chain neck and jeweled fingers whistling suggestively. Five thugs leered behind him.
When his ring-laden hand reached for her—CRACK.
She snapped his wrist effortlessly.
"Leave. Now."
The man howled in delayed pain.
A woman had dared strike him!
Enraged, he swung a bottle overhead.
"You bitch! I'll teach you a lesson!"