FINDING LOVE ON THE TITANIC
Chapter Four
As the ocean’s currents mounted,
waves began to lap so profusely they splashed on the third class poop deck. As
the cooler air began penetrating through all the decks, passengers one by one
elected to filter back inside the ship to gain some extra warmth.
With the cooler air flowing
around her, Rachel attempted to warm up by taking another sip of black coffee.
Another gust of wind washed across the deck. She wrapped the wool blanket
closer about her.
As Ross made his way over to
Rachel to introduce himself, he nervously checked to make sure he was clean
shaven and that his hair was neatly in place. He straightened his cashmere coat
and took a deep breath. As he got closer to her, he noticed she was shivering.
With that thought in mind, Ross picked up an available blanket from a stack
located directly outside of the gym door.
"I noticed you were
shivering. How about an extra blanket for some extra warmth?" Ross
inquired while boldly taking a seat in the empty deck chair next to hers. As he
gazed at her closely for the first time, he observed that not only did she have
beautiful eyes, but her skin was soft and crystal clear.
"Yes!" Rachel, somewhat
stunned, nodded. She looked up at him. Ross noted how her thick eyelashes
further pronounced those mesmerizing blue eyes. He sat there silently for close
to a minute, observing her natural beauty.
"I believe I need to
properly introduce myself. My name is Ross Geller, and I am from New York
City." As Ross leaned over to introduce himself, Rachel’s soft, refreshing
scent of Vinolia soap penetrated his nostrils.
"Pleased to make your
acquaintance, Mr. Geller. My name is Rachel Green, and my hometown is also New
York City. Are you traveling alone?" Rachel, somewhat surprised by her
sudden interest, inquired. She observed that this new acquaintance was not
overly handsome but was finely dressed and had beautiful, thick, black hair and
strong brown eyes.
"Yes. I am an anthropologist
returning from a dig in Egypt. I have read some positive reports in
Shipbuilder’s magazine about the safety and comforts on this ship, and since I
had never been on a maiden voyage, I purchased a ticket and here I am. Are you
traveling alone also?"
"Yes. I have been traveling
abroad for the past few months, making stops in Africa and Europe. Since I am a
fashion consultant for Women’s Wear, I spent the past month of my trip in Paris,
observing and acquiring new fashion ideas. I will return to New York City just
in time to attend and report on the Easter fashions at the races."
"The wind appears to have
subsided. Would you care to join me for a walk on the boat deck?" Ross
inquired as he stood up, offering her his arm. Rachel nodded as she slipped her
hand through his arm. His arms felt strong and muscular. Rachel realized the
warm blanket was not needed anymore for warmth and comfort.