Chapter 69: Low Tide

Adrian once believed control could prevent loss. Lately, control seemed to be the surest way to cause it.

They find Lucy on the beach following a trail of stranded starfish, unaware of the panic she caused. Adrian contains his fear instead of shouting.

Adrian understood that the next choice would be remembered long after the explanation. For years Claire had translated Adrian's absence into excuses. Now she watched actions instead, and Adrian understood that no speech could shorten the distance he had made.

Claire and Adrian disagree sharply about supervision, then repair the conflict without retreat or domination.

"We can be angry and still stay in the room."

Desire moved between them like weather: undeniable, changeable, and no longer mistaken for a promise.

Lucy produces a rusted key she found beneath the old pier.