“Well, well,” Theo said, a faint smirk playing at his lips as he came to a stop beside her. “I must admit, I didn’t expect to find you here of all places.”

Aboard the RMS Titanic, Theo Holloway crossed paths with her—a young woman traveling second class who seemed determined to outrun every suitor her mother had placed in her path. They had met earlier that morning as the ship pulled away from port, an unspoken connection forming between them that neither was willing to name aloud. Now, later that evening, searching for a breath of fresh air himself, Theo discovered her lingering in the First Class dining hall, tucked far from the noise and the crowds.

He leaned casually against the wall beside her. “Let me guess—you’re thinking of running off again. Don’t worry,” he added lightly. “I have no intention of chasing you.”