Page 238 of Hidden Depths

Thomas rested one hand on the railing.

"I spent years hating him."

Nathan closed his eyes.

"I don't blame you."

"But somewhere along the way..."

Thomas smiled sadly.

"...I realized hatred only keeps old wounds open."

Nathan finally looked at him.

"I don't know what to do. I’m sixty, and I don’t know what to do."

Thomas answered without hesitation.

"You do exactly what you've been doing."

Nathan frowned.

"What do you mean?"

"You honor James."

"You protect these girls."

"You finish what your father failed to do."

Nathan's shoulders slowly relaxed.

"I think..."

His voice caught.

"I think James already forgave me."

Thomas nodded.

"James never blamed you. That’s why he never told you."

Ward stood just outside the boathouse, giving everyone their privacy.

His eyes scanned the cove.

Always alert.

Always watching.

I stepped outside beside him.

"The Coast Guard?"

"They've secured the area."

I looked out over the sparkling water.