In the dim light, she could barely make out the words Rockfield II on the stern of Caleb’s boat. It was a good thing he took her hand and helped her into his boat because she couldn’t seem to move by herself. I shouldn’t be here. The boat engine started, churning the water and vibrating the wooden seat she sat on near the stern. Caleb manned the wheel behind the windshield and they eased down the tributary, slowly and quietly like thieves in the night. Although they had so much to say to each other, neither spoke. All that seemed to matter was getting away from Oyster Island. As she squeezed her hands in her lap, she wondered how their final goodbye would be said. Would there be strength or tears? The dim green lights from Rockfield’s slipped farther away until she could no longer see them. When they reached the inlet to the Patuxent River, Caleb opened up the motor, kicking it from a purr to a roar as it ate up the waves. Pearl gripped the side of the boat, shivering from the cool spray kissing her fingers.
