Grief built in Katherine’s chest as she took in the spectacular ode to the night, the familiar tang of the sea far from helping to soothe her nerves. “You should be abed.” At her husband’s voice she stiffened. “I couldna sleep.” She glanced his way, far from wanting company. “Neither, ’twould seem, could you.” Illuminated by the spill of silvery light, his face remained a solemn mask. “I heard you leave the cabin.” “Between the ship’s creaking, the rumble of water, and the snoring, I find that hard to believe.” His mouth tightened. “I dinna lie.” Exhaustion washed through her, memories of the nightmare poking her mind like sharp sticks. She rubbed her temple. “If you came here to argue, go away. I have little patience for a dispute this night.” For a long moment he studied her. “Why did you leave your berthing?” She stared at Stephan, a stranger whose presence made her feel protected, a husband in whose company she felt like a stranger. Katherine leaned against the rail, lifted her face against the cool night breeze.
