Page 273 of Hidden Depths

Thomas gave a quiet nod.

"Good."

Willow stepped forward first.

She wrapped her arms gently around Thomas.

"You're coming to visit us."

The old sailor smiled.

"I suppose I don't have much choice now."

"You never did," Willow laughed through tears.

"You were Grandpa’s best friend. You’re our family now."

One by one, each of us hugged him.

When it was my turn, Thomas held me for just a second longer.

"Your grandfather would be proud of you."

My throat tightened.

"I hope so."

"I know so."

Outside, Frank was already loosening the dock lines.

Rose stood beside him with her hands on her hips.

"If you boys are planning on standing around talking all night..."

"...we’ll never get to our hotel."

Frank grinned.

Thomas chuckled.

Laughter drifted across the dock.

For just a few precious minutes...

It felt almost normal.

Almost.

Ward wasn't fooled.

Neither was Ben.

Storm noticed all five SEALs quietly scanning the marina while everyone else talked.

No one mentioned it.

They didn't have to.