CHAPTER 12: Gideon Learns the Tide Table

Gideon Cross asked to see Maren privately.
Nora said no before Maren could waste breath.
He tried again through his attorney, then through the harbor commissioner, then through an old senator whose call was sent politely to voicemail. Men like Gideon believed every locked door had a name he could purchase. By dawn, he was learning some doors belonged to procedure.
The harbor authority froze the Asteria’s departure pending investigation. Cross Maritime’s board received notice of potential witness intimidation, attempted coercive transfer, and evidence tampering aboard a company-linked vessel.
The merger call was delayed first by fifteen minutes, then by an hour, then indefinitely.
Gideon watched his future turn into announcements written by lawyers he did not control.
When he finally saw Maren across the station, there was no velvet grandeur left in him.
Only a man who had watched a woman fall and mistaken survival for an inconvenience.
He lifted one hand, not quite apology, not quite command.
Maren did not move toward him.
Leo woke and followed her gaze.
“Is Grandpa mad?” he asked.
Maren kissed his damp temple.
“No, sweetheart,” she said. “He is accountable.”