Page 428 of Hidden Depths

“You said we were done with that.”

“I said I wouldn’t leave you at the marina.”

“Convenient difference.”

“If something happens, run to the maintenance building and lock yourself inside.”

“And if Ross takes you?”

“He doesn’t need me.”

“I do.”

The words escaped.

Ward went still.

So did I.

Rain slid down his face.

“Storm.”

A thousand things waited inside my chest.

But this wasn’t the moment.

Calle and Thomas were inside.

The timer was running.

I stepped backward.

“Go.”

Ward hesitated.

Then entered the lighthouse.

I waited three seconds.

Then followed him.

I knew I was breaking my promise.

I also knew Ward had expected me to.

He moved along the left wall.

I stayed far enough behind that he wouldn’t see me without turning.

The circular room smelled of salt, rust, and damp stone.

An old iron staircase curved upward.

Thomas sat tied to a chair near the center.

Blood streaked one side of his face.