Page 163 of Hidden Depths

Hazel smiled for the first time in what felt like hours.

"I'm afraid this mystery doesn't come with actors."

Rose looked at Nathan.

"Oh, I don't know."

She smiled warmly.

"Our mysterious old sailor seems pretty convincing."

Nathan actually laughed.

"I'll take that as a compliment."

"You should."

Frank nodded.

"You've certainly mastered the dramatic pause."

Nathan placed a hand over his heart.

"I've been practicing for twenty years."

Even Ben shook his head, smiling.

"I believe him."

Willow leaned against the chart table.

"You two really aren't frightened?"

Frank looked at Rose before answering.

"Of course we are."

Rose nodded.

"We're not foolish."

"We know someone out there has hurt people."

Her smile softened as she looked at Storm.

"But we also know something else."

Storm tilted her head.

"What's that?"

Rose reached over and gently squeezed my hand.

"We chose this voyage because of you."

I blinked.

"What?"