University Communications

Anton took a single step toward her and stopped again. He opened his mouth to speak, but instead of words, there rose up, from deep inside, an overpowering cry. He could not hold it back and it frightened him.

Anton reached for Louisa. Tears filled her eyes as she acknowledged the truth. She shook her head and opened her arms for him. They clung to each other, he filled with great wracking sobs, she holding him and crying softly, "No! No!"

In the dark morning hours, Defiance lay slack at her lines. The auxiliary engine murmured steadily, and the galley lights reflected through the storm window leaving a shimmering patch on the water. Inside, Johnny and the chief talked over the repairs and supplies needed for the next trip.

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