"Austin..." He turned back. "You may call me Hayley."

She walked past him to the galley.

"Mr. Lawrence... I didn't realize." Austin felt awkward.

"Yes, son, I know. I didn't have much notice myself."

"Do you mind my asking?"

"Well, you know Hayley. She always does what she wants to do, and before I knew it, here she was, on the ship."

"I know you must be concerned about the two of us being here together, but I can assure you that..."

"It's alright, Austin. I'm not concerned."

"Just the same, I will stay away from her."

"You and I know it will take you both being on different ships for that to happen." Mr. Lawrence smiled. "You have been the best of friends in the past, and perhaps you can both have a new start at continuing your friendship."

"Surely you understand why it can never be more than friendship, between Hayley and me."

Mr. Lawrence nodded.

"My mother has also made it very clear that she is not in favor of me having any kind of relationship with Hayley."

"Do you still obey your mother?"

"No, but I care about her opinion."

"Even if she's wrong?"

"Actually, there is more to the situation between Hayley and me than I care to say."