In Deep Water: Chapter Sixteen

Salty air nibbles my cheeks as I step onto the Lido Deck, the sky moving in turbulent waves above my head. Xander and I follow Eddie past the abandoned cabanas and pool to a set of stairs that lead to the Command Center.

“They’ll be joining us anytime, too.” Eddie hasn’t stopped talking since we left the Caferia. “They told me where I could find you.”

Xander nods, rubbing soft circles into my palm. His piercing gaze moves lazily along the horizon, where lightning flashes in uneven bursts.

The Command Center oversees the whole of the Griffin, as well as a three-hundred-and-sixty-five-degree view of the ocean surrounding her. The room is made entirely of windows, offering a reprieve from the sea wind.

“Wow, it’s breathtaking.” I spin in a slow circle.

“Welcome to Command,” Eddie waves an arm around the room as he makes his way to a set of computers on the far left side.

“Hey, Em!” Sophie enters, her long hair windswept. “This place is awesome.”

“That’s what I was just saying,” I beam.

Sophie wiggles her eyebrows. “How was lunch?”

“It was good, even though it was cut short.” I feel my cheeks heat a little.

Sophie rolls her eyes. “I know! When Eddie came looking for Xander, I tried...continue reading Chapter Sixteen at Coffee House Writers.