Page 229 of Hidden Depths

"I was invited on this trip by friends."

Thomas nodded once.

"Then I'm grateful you were."

He slipped an old brass key from around his neck.

The metal was worn smooth from decades of use.

"I've carried this key ever since your grandfather handed it to me."

"He made me promise."

"If any of his grandchildren ever came looking for answers..."

"...I'd know the time had come."

He looked at each of us.

"I wish it hadn't."

He slid the key into the lock.

Click.

The sound echoed through the silent boathouse.

Thomas rested his hand on the lid.

Before opening it, he looked at us one last time.

"Once I show you what's inside..."

"...your lives will never be the same."

Outside, the distant wail of Coast Guard sirens echoed across the bay.

Thomas closed his eyes for a brief moment.

"Good."

"They made it in time."

He looked back at us.

"Your grandfather spent years trying to keep you away from this truth."

His hand tightened on the lid.

"But the captain of Mariners Crown has forced our hand."

He slowly lifted the lid.

43

STORM

Grandpa used to tell me,