CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-FIVE: THE HIDDEN THIEF

"Are you sure about this?" Mason asked as they made their way to the grand ballroom, where a masquerade party was in full swing. "It feels like we're taking a big risk." Claire squeezed his hand reassuringly. "We have to do something, Mason. We can't let this thief continue to terrorize the passengers." As they entered the ballroom, the opulent scene before them was a stark contrast to the tension they felt. Guests in elaborate masks and glittering costumes twirled across the dance floor, laughter and music filling the air. For a moment, it was easy to forget the cloud of suspicion that had been hanging over the cruise. They mingled with the other guests, keeping up appearances while constantly checking the time. Sergei had promised to alert them if anyone entered their cabin. An hour into the party, Claire felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to find Ivan, his face partially obscured by a ornate Venetian mask. "Ms. Langford," he said, his voice low. "A word, if you please?" Cl