That night, I dreamed of the sea again.
Freezing water filled my lungs. I clung to the side of the boat, my nails peeling back one by one. Someone stood onshore with their back to me. No matter how loudly I called, they wouldn't turn around.
"Don't make me get on the boat..."
I fought my way out of the dream and woke to find myself crying.
Everett's voice came from outside the room.
"Celia, it's me. May I come in?"
I remembered letting him upstairs after I read the message, but not falling asleep on the sofa.
"Come in."
He switched on the floor lamp. Instead of touching me, he poured a glass of water and set it within reach. Only after my breathing slowed did he sit at the other end of the sofa.
"What did you dream about?"
"A boat."
I handed him my phone.
"And this place."
His
