Page 215 of Hidden Depths

Storm returned to the bridge, fastening her own life jacket.

"Everyone's ready."

She followed my gaze.

"Oh..."

Now she understood.

The reef wasn't just an obstacle.

It was a weapon.

"They're counting on us to panic," she said.

I smiled.

"They picked the wrong Ranger."

Her lips curved despite everything.

"They also picked the wrong Sinclair."

For just a second, the fear disappeared.

It was replaced by determination.

That's when I knew.

No matter what happened today...

This family wasn't going to break.

A sharp voice burst over the VHF radio.

"Sea Whisper..."

Every hair on my neck stood up.

The transmission was clear.

Too clear.

"Sea Whisper, this is your final warning."

Storm stared at the speaker.

"They're using marine radio."

The voice continued.

"Shut down your engines."

"Prepare to be boarded."

"You have one minute."

Ben looked up from below.