Chapter Nine
Third Class
Jack had taken them down to third class where people were partying, getting boozed, dancing, and having a jolly old time. Rose watched as Jack danced with a little girl named Cora, enjoying herself. Nearby, James was arm wrestling one of the good ol' Irish boys. Dana was cheering for him. It was a very intense match, Both James and the Irishmen were sweating and straining.
"Come on James, you can do it," said Dana.
There were bets going on as this was very intense. After awhile, with a burst of strength, James took the guy down. He stood up and raised his hands up. Dana went around collecting winnings. Once she was done, she ran and jumped into James' arms. James caught her and spun her around, kissing her the whole time.
Jack eventually switched dancing partners, now dancing with Rose.
"Wanna dance?" James asked Dana.
"I'd love to," she said.
James stuffed the money into his pocket, then led Dana in a dance. James could not help but smile at Dana's laughing. She was enjoying herself immensely. Jack and Rose stopped to watch them dance. They smiled.
"He's pretty light on his toes," said Jack.
"Yeah, I noticed," said Rose, "Did you notice how they look when they smile at each other?"
"Yes," said Jack, "They seem to be completely in love."
They watched as James twirled Dana, then pulled her back in, stealing a kiss in the process. Once the song ended, James and Dana cheered and clapped with the others. Dana and James sat down with Rose and Jack. Jack handed them each a glass of ale.
"Thanks," said James as he took a sip.
"Having fun so far?" asked Jack.
"Yeah, I'm having a blast," said James.
"That's good," said Jack.
James put his arm around Dana, and held her close as they watched the others dance.
"This is so fun," said Dana.
"I was hoping you would enjoy yourselves," said Jack.
"We are," said Rose, "Thanks for inviting us."
"You're welcome," said Jack.
After awhile, James, Dana, separated from Jack and Rose as they went off to take a walk.
"We have to retire for the night," said James, "Thanks again."
"You're welcome," said Jack.
James and Dana walked to their stateroom.
"That was very enjoyable," said Dana.
"I have not had that much fun in years," said James.
Dana smiled as she held his hand.
"This is turning out to be the best 'accident' ever," said Dana.
James smiled as he kissed her forehead.
"If it was not for this so-called 'accident'," said James, "I do not think I would have been able to find the courage to ask you out."
Dana smiled and kissed him as they entered their stateroom to retire for the night...