Page 122 of Hidden Tide

“Where did he put the film?”

“I don’t know.”

“How can you not know?”

“Because once Daniel was dead, James trusted no one. Not even me.”

“Maybe he had a reason.”

Thomas flinches.

I don’t regret saying it.

“Calle,” Mom warns softly.

“No. Thomas has known almost everything from the beginning. He knew Dad found evidence at Blackwater. He knew Lawrence Vail and a federal agent were at Lands End. He knew Dad put the real film in my jacket.”

“I was trying to protect you.”

“Stop saying that!”

My voice strikes the walls.

Everyone falls silent.

“You didn’t protect us. You left us unprepared. Men searched our home. They watched us grow up. They attacked Sea Whisper, broke into Willow’s restaurant and shot at my sisters. Tonight, four names were crossed out because someone wants me.”

I point at the photograph.

“And I still don’t know why.”

Thomas rises slowly.

“You’re right.”

I expected another excuse.

His agreement steals the next words from me.

“I told myself silence was protection because it was easier than admitting I was afraid,” he says. “James kept fighting after Daniel died. I hid in my boathouse and guarded the pieces he left behind.”

“You helped Grandpa.”

“Not enough.”

Thomas removes his glasses and wipes his eyes.

“I failed your father. I failed James. And I failed every one of you.”

No one speaks.

Outside, footsteps pass through the guarded corridor.

The building feels quiet compared to the fear moving through our family.

Ben touches my back.

“Come with me.”