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Nathan studies the photograph. “Five arms for five pieces.”
“The glass prisms fit into them,” Ben says.
Storm’s hand tightens around Ward’s.
“If we put the five pieces in the table, the light reveals something.”
“Most likely,” Thomas says.
Keating shakes his head. “No one is going to that lighthouse to test the theory.”
“We’re missing Calle’s piece anyway,” Mom says.
The officer near the door receives a message through his radio.
He listens, then approaches Keating.
“The boarding team found Storm’s sextant. It’s still inside the locked drawer.”
Storm releases a long breath.
“Have it secured and brought here,” Keating says.
Another message follows.
The officer’s expression changes.
“What is it?” Ben asks.
“The deputies reached Willow’s place. Her office was locked.”
“That’s good,” Willow says.
The officer looks toward the phone.
“The lock had been picked.”
Willow goes silent.
“Was the watch taken?” Keating asks.
“They haven’t entered the office yet. They’re waiting for the evidence team.”
Keating issues instructions, then turns back to us.
“From this point forward, assume whoever took Calle’s compass knows about all five objects.”
“They may not know what the objects are,” I say.
“They found my cabin.”
“Because they’ve been watching you,” Ben replies. “They may have seen the compass or heard you mention it.”
I think about every person who has boarded Sea Whisper. Every dockworker, passenger, repairman and supplier.
The list is too long.
Keating begins organizing our relocation. Mom, Nathan and Thomas will ride in an unmarked sheriff’s vehicle. Storm and Ward will travel with two Coast Guard officers. Ben and I will be in another vehicle.