Page 254 of Commander’s Mate

“If she is dead—”

Harper came closer.

“We find truth.”

I breathed.

Not comfort. Truth. Better.

“You are not coming groundside.”

She stared.

I waited.

Then added, “Request.”

Her mouth twitched.

“Denied.”

I closed my eyes.

“Harper.”

“I’m staying aboard.”

I opened them.

She smiled.

“I know what I’m good at.”

Relief nearly weakened my knees.

She saw it.

“Do not make a thing out of this.”

“I said nothing.”

“You felt loudly.”

Scarlet had taught her that phrase.

I disliked Scarlet.

Often.

Harper touched my chest.

“I’ll be at intake.”

“Safe.”

“No.”

I frowned.