Jackson sighed and jumped back into the creek. If the cormorants wanted to compete, he wasn’t going to make it easy for them.
After a while, he’d managed to refill the metal bucket with another haul of glistening fish. This time, he didn’t take his eyes off it for a second. Carrying the heavy bucket in one hand, he strode straight back toward the rock cave—no detours, no distractions. Those damn birds wouldn’t get another free meal.
As he approached the cave, the sound of laughter drifted out to meet him—light, melodic, and full of life. The corners of his lips lifted unconsciously. Whatever frustration he’d felt earlier vanished in an instant.
“Ladies, I’m home!” he called out cheerfully.
Within moments, three smiling faces appeared at the entrance, running up to greet him.
“Captain,
