Enigma Tracer

A little before noon, Bailey and Gracie showed up in string bikinis and bright cover-ups. They parked themselves and their accoutrements outside the wet area on the loungers. Gracie moved a table on either side and spread out her towel. Bailey signaled a waiter and ordered two fruity chic drinks. With their wide hats and large sunglasses, they settled in for serious people-watching.

By early afternoon, the deck chair real estate became scarce as more people packed into play in the water attractions. Though removed from the activity, the human traffic and noise made the conversation between Gracie and Bailey rise in volume.

Bailey pushed her glass to Gracie. “Your turn.”

Gracie returned with their drinks just as the hottie photographer appeared. “Hey girls, my name’s Brayson. I took a couple of shots yesterday when you boarded. The camera loves you both. When I noticed you here relaxing, I wondered if you’d consider taking some shots to help advertise the cruise line. I’ll need a signed release, but, of course, we won’t reveal your names in ads.”

Bailey sat up and beamed at the nice-looking man. “Gracie, this might give us that extra push we discussed.”

Gracie chewed her lip a bit as she ran through the possibilities. “Alright, Bailey, if you want to. It shouldn’t hurt anything.” Gracie shyly smiled at the cameraman. “Brayson, you said, right? Sure, we’ll sign your forms, but is this for just now or on and off during the cruise?”

“Here on deck today for sure,” Brayson said, “then we’ll see if another venue looks promising. Your photos will be no cost as well. I have the authority of the cruise ship to provide coupons for free drinks, discounts on purchases in the shops, and custom coffees on demand for the entire cruise. Nothing offshore however.” He handed them each a piece of paper and a pen. They scribbled and handed the papers back to Brayson, exchanging conquering hero expressions.

“Now don’t change anything since I want you to look unrehearsed,” said Brayson. “I need to do a little gear setup for lighting and height with my drone camera.”

The activity became interesting for the idle passers by, including the person of interest for Bailey and Gracie. Pliant and one associate lingered longer than the other casual observers and even sported a puzzled look. Gracie noticed Plaint flipping through what she suspected were apps on his cell, then pausing to type as if in a search bar. She watched Pliant’s expression brightened. He leaned close to say something into his associate’s ear, who nodded.

Bailey and Gracie hammed it up for the photographer, encouraged by the comments of folks walking by. The photo shoot continued until Pliant moved out of the area. The drone bobbed and weaved to make digital records. Brayson slyly winked at Gracie, who inclined in private recognition.