Page 275 of Hidden Depths

Nathan followed.

Then Ward.

Only after the dock was secured did the rest of us step ashore.

Frank noticed.

"You boys always this careful?"

Ward gave him a small smile.

"Only when it matters."

52

STORM

“Some storms announce themselves with thunder. The dangerous ones arrive so quietly, you don’t realize the wind has changed until you’re already fighting to stay afloat.”

— James Sinclair

The dock should have felt safe.

Families wandered between the waterfront shops.

Music drifted from a restaurant overlooking the harbor.

A little boy stood near the railing, laughing every time a wave splashed against the pilings.

Normal people.

Living normal lives.

But after everything we’d seen...

Normal didn’t feel real anymore.

Frank lifted the first suitcase from Sea Whisper.

Nathan immediately took it from him.

“I can carry my own luggage,” Frank grumbled.

“I know.”

Nathan glanced toward the parking lot.

“But right now, I’d rather you keep your hands free.”

Frank followed his gaze.

“For what?”

“In case I tell you to run.”

Rose stopped halfway down the gangway.

“You expect us to run carrying these bags?”