Page 199 of Hidden Depths

Frank and Rose wished everyone goodnight.

Rose hugged each of us as though we'd known each other for years.

"I expect coffee together in the morning."

Willow laughed.

"You have my word."

Frank smiled.

"And pancakes."

Willow grinned.

"I can do pancakes."

They disappeared below deck, still holding hands.

Storm smiled.

"I hope Ben and Scott make it to breakfast."

Ben looked offended.

"I've never missed breakfast."

Scott raised an eyebrow.

"You've been late."

"I was strategically delayed."

The laughter eased the tension.

Only for a moment.

We can talk more easily now that Frank and Rose are not here. I didn't want to upset them any more than we had to.

The SEALS, Nathan, my sister, and I sat around the large table.

Nathan carefully opened Grandpa's logbook.

"I think James wanted us to read this differently."

Hazel frowned.

"Differently?"

Nathan nodded.

"He never wasted words."

He slowly turned the pages.

"Look."

Every sunrise entry began the same way.