Page 217 of Hidden Depths

"I recognize those boats."

I stared toward the distant horizon.

Small at first.

Then growing larger.

White hulls.

Blue lights flashing.

Storm grabbed the binoculars.

Her breath caught.

"Ward..."

"What is it?"

She lowered the binoculars slowly, her eyes shining.

"The Coast Guard."

40

Storm

Grandpa used to say.

"Fear makes people run. Love gives them a reason to stand."

— James Sinclair

The blue lights looked like hope.

Tiny flashes on the horizon.

Growing larger every second.

I tightened my grip on the railing.

"They're coming."

Ward never took his eyes off the attackers.

"They still have time."

I knew exactly what he meant.

If the silver-haired captain wanted us dead...

He wouldn't wait for the Coast Guard.

Far behind the attack boats, the elegant silhouette of the Mariner's Crown came into view.

She looked peaceful.

Beautiful.