Page 54 of Hidden Depths

"You've noticed her too."

It wasn't a question.

I nodded.

"How long?"

"Yesterday."

She exhaled slowly.

"I thought maybe I was imagining it."

"No."

"What do you think?"

I didn't answer immediately.

The ocean had taught patience.

The Teams had taught me the same lesson.

Neither of us rushed to conclusions.

"I think we watch."

"And if she keeps showing up?"

"Then we keep watching."

Storm smiled.

"I like your plan."

Ward laughed quietly.

"That's because it's the same plan you've had since we left San Francisco."

Storm looked at him.

"Observe first."

He nodded.

"Act later."

She smiled.

"My grandfather used to say..."

She paused.

'A captain who panics has already made the wrong decision.'

I looked at her.

"I would've liked your grandfather," I