“Don’t be ridiculous.” Her future depended on reaching Spain before the thief did. “I’m sure you’ll do your best to get us to our destination in a timely manner.”
“Yes, Miss Chase.”
Harriet chose to ignore his sardonic tone and turned back to the bow, looking for a spot out of the crew’s way where she could hold on securely yet still have a good view to observe the workings of the ship. A coil of rope near the base of the foremast made a passable cushion. She folded her legs tailor-style and tucked her skirts out of the way.
Crewmen came close to her position and swung over the railing to climb the ratlines. She hadn’t even heard the command to take in sail. Sheffield was only thirty feet aft, but the wind ripped his words away. She tilted her head back, way back, to watch the sailors n
