74. The Island To Exile

The cruise sailed along its course for four days until, at last, it docked at a small island under a clear sunset sky.

During those days, Lyla and Carlo rarely left their cabin. Lost in the joy of their confessions, they spent each day wrapped up in one another, as if time and space had become meaningless.

When they finally, reluctantly, separated and prepared to disembark, Lyla noticed the eerie quiet around them. The usual bustle on the cruise had vanished. Apart from the stern-faced guards standing nearby, there was no one else in sight. The stillness unsettled her, making it feel like the lively days on board had all been a dream.

She paused, instinctively stopping in her tracks as she followed Carlo. “Where are all those women?” she asked quietly.

Carlo turned, noticing her anxious expression, and, with a playful seriousness, replied, “Fed to the sharks.”

“Really?!” She gasped, covering her mouth. For a moment, she seemed to believe him, running to the railing and looking around