“We need that star,” I say firmly. “Now more than ever.”
“To find it, we need to know where Reeves keeps it,” Sid says. “His address would be on the card.”
The business card sits on the rock where Reeves left it. I pick it up. “Jonathan Reeves, Director of Acquisitions, Coastal Development Partners, LLC.” Providence address and contact information below.
“Providence is forty minutes away,” I calculate. “We could go now.”
Sid shakes his head. “Can’t just break in and take it back. But we might gather information about their plans for Seacliff Haven.”
“True.” I nod. “And we still have more locations to check.”
We continue our beach exploration, heading for the fifth site. The map shows it beyond the lighthouse, in an area only accessible at low tide. The timing works.
The walk takes twenty minutes. Finn ranges ahead, circling back occasionally. The beach grows rockier, tidepools reflecting the cloudy sky.
“Been thinking about your star,” Sid says, navigating around a large tidepool. “If your father found proof of the Salvador Mundi, what form would it take?”
“Coordinates, maybe. Or photographs of artifacts that’d identify the ship.”
“Either would be valuable,” Sid agrees. “And bad for developers wanting to build on the site.”
The fifth location’s hard to pinpoint. The reference points blur in this remote section. After debate, we settle on a spot where large rocks form a rough circle, matching the map.
“This feels right,” I decide. “Dad brought me here after a big storm once. Said the ocean gives up its secrets during times of change.”
We use the radar again. Nothing underground. Disappointment starts to settle, then Finn barks, focused on a narrow crevice between the largest rocks.
“What is it, boy?” I peer into the shadowy space.
Finn paws at the opening, too large to fit inside but clearly interested. I pull a flashlight from my pack.
“Something there,” I confirm, seeing metal glint. Too narrow for my arm, but Sid’s slimmer build works.
“Got it.” He extracts a small box made of tarnished metal.
Six inches square, surface etched with intricate designs obscured by corrosion. A simple latch, fused shut by centuries in the sea.
“Don’t force it,” Sid says. “Needs proper conservation.”
I photograph from all angles, noting the scrollwork. “Portuguese craftsmanship?”
Sid nods. “Sixteenth century design. Could be someone’s personal item from the Salvador Mundi.”
We wrap the box carefully, add it to our collection. The discoveries strengthen my conviction that Dad found the legendary shipwreck, documenting everything before his heart attack.
“Sixth location’s back toward town,” I check the map. “Near the old fishing pier.”
Sid checks his watch. “Almost noon. Christmas Market will be busy. We’ll attract attention.”
He’s right. Two people with a Giant Schnauzer, digging near town during a major event? Obvious.
“Split up,” I suggest. “You research Coastal Development online. I’ll check the location with Finn, stay discreet.”
Sid hesitates. “After Reeves confronted us, I don’t like you going alone.”
His protectiveness surprises me. So does my lack of irritation. “Finn’ll be with me. Public area, lots of people.”
“Let me drive you to the pier at least. Long hike back to the cars.”
