“Oh no, not the speckled pink sails!” Zach laughed. “I wish I’d witnessed your arrival. Must have caused quite a stir.”
Nick watched Zach, thinking about how thoroughly Zach kept track of the ship. “I’ve often wondered why Grandfather gave her to me instead of you.”
Zach shrugged one shoulder. “Because the old fart knew I’d sink her in a storm or get lost and wreck her on rocky shoals. Or worse, gamble her away while deep in my cups.” He briefly rested a hand on Nick’s shoulder, then patted his cheek. “Even as a beardless youth with your voice cracking when you called out orders to the crew, you showed an aptitude for navigation and seamanship far greater than I ever did. It was obvious to us both that the sea would be your mistress, lad.” He sipped his wine. “Me, I prefer something warm
