Page 66 of Hidden Depths

"You've carried it."

I didn't answer.

Compliments always made me uncomfortable.

Ben noticed.

"You don't like praise."

"I don't need it."

He smiled.

"That's not what I said."

Below us...

Scott's voice echoed across the deck.

"Nobody panic!"

Storm looked over the bridge wing.

Scott was standing beside a mop.

The mop bucket had tipped over.

Water had gone everywhere.

Hazel stood in the middle of the puddle.

Completely still.

She looked down at her soaked shoes.

Then slowly looked up at Scott.

He took one careful step backward.

"I'd like to explain."

Hazel folded her arms.

"I'm listening."

"I have absolutely no explanation."

Willow burst into laughter.

Even Calle nearly dropped the wrench she was carrying.

Hazel sighed.

"You've been aboard four days."

"I know."

"And you've already flooded my deck."