Page 331 of Hidden Depths

Ward started after him.

Another shot struck the railing between them.

The sniper wasn’t trying to stop Ward.

He was covering the intruder’s escape.

The man dove into the black water and disappeared.

Mark fired twice from the upper deck.

Not toward the water.

Toward the marina roof.

A shadow moved near one of the vents.

Then vanished.

“Shooter is retreating!” Mark called.

Ben’s voice came through the darkness from the port side.

“Two in the water. Heading south.”

The marina lights flickered.

Once.

Twice.

Then returned.

Everything looked worse beneath the harsh white lights.

Broken glass covered the salon.

A bullet hole scarred the wall.

Blood stained the rear deck.

I didn’t know whether it belonged to Ward or the intruder.

The Coast Guard officers ran toward us from the marina entrance.

One held his arm against his chest.

Blood darkened his uniform.

“We’re secure!” he called. “Shooter escaped across the service roofs.”

“Medical kit!” Rose shouted.

Hazel was already carrying it.

Ward grabbed my shoulders.

“Let me see your neck.”