Developing a Routine
Ed and Mabel’s secret life aboard the ship required careful planning. They developed routines that mimicked the habits of other passengers to avoid suspicion. They ate at different restaurants, attended shows sporadically, and even made friends with other travelers—only to say goodbye as if they were leaving too. They avoided the crew’s gaze, making sure to stay low-key. Their daily life became a series of careful decisions, ensuring they would not stand out.
Playing the Part of Passengers
The couple became masters of blending in. Mabel would chat with tourists about their next destination, while Ed would casually ask about their adventures. They played the part so convincingly that no one ever suspected they had been on the ship far longer than anyone else. They would disembark at ports and re-board like other passengers, mingling with new groups each time. Every day felt like a new vacation, yet they never left.