Checking her watch for the umpteenth time Rachel starred across the gangplank towards the quayside.  They were due soon.  Friends from years before and friends from recent years.  Was she risking her career by mixing the two groups of people? She didnt think so, everyone invited to this trip had a special place in her life.  The only one she wasnt sure about was....no she wasnt thinking about that.  This was a fun time, a time to celebrate her 40th and make the announcement that would shock not only her guests but also the World.<br/><br/>Dressed in white pants and white bikini top, the color made her tan stand out.  Her long dark hair was loose, tumbling down her back in a cascade of soft curls.   She wore a floppy white hat, shades in her hand as she looked for them.  Behind her two of the crew were pouring welcome drinks.  There were snacks already prepared by the chef (who had cost her a fortune but was worth every penny).  They would live like Royalty for the next two weeks.<br/><br/>The Master of the Ship was in the bridge, Rachel glanced at him, smiling nervously.  She was never sure what to make of the man. But he was competent and the crew obeyed his commands without question.  One of the reasons the ship ran so smoothly.<br/><br/>Checking her watch again she waited.  She was nervous.  This was going to be an interesting couple of weeks....<br/>