CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-NINE: THE CAPTURE

Ivan sought them out at breakfast, his face beaming with appreciation. "My friends," he said, clasping their hands warmly. "I cannot thank you enough for what you've done. Your bravery and ingenuity have saved this cruise and potentially many future ones from falling victim to Sergei's schemes." Claire felt a blush creep up her cheeks at Ivan's praise. "We're just glad we could help," she said modestly. Ivan shook his head, his expression serious. "You've done more than just help. You've shown extraordinary courage in the face of danger. I insist on arranging a special dinner in your honor tonight. The least we can do is celebrate your heroism." As Ivan walked away to make the arrangements, Claire turned to Mason with a mixture of embarrassment and excitement. "Heroism? Us?" she said with a laugh. Mason grinned, pulling her close. "Well, we did solve a mystery and catch a criminal mastermind. I'd say that qualifies as heroic, wouldn't you?" The rest of the day passed in a blur of