Standing on the foredeck of the Reliance, Charlisse leaned back against Merrick. He wrapped his arms around her and placed a kiss on her cheek. A warm salty breeze danced over them as a waning moon cast its silver reflection upon inky waters. The sound of the sea purling against the hull soothed Charlisse almost as much as the scent and feel of her husband cradling her against his chest.

"How is your friend?" Merrick asked.

"Warm and safe. She and Elisa are getting ...