“They have friends in influential positions,” Tommy responds. “Samuel warned me they might find ways around the protections if evidence of the Salvador Mundi wasn’t properly documented.”
The pieces continue falling into place. Dad had been racing against powerful development interests, creating a record that would ensure the shipwreck site received protection regardless of his personal involvement.
“We need to recover my star,” I say. “And whatever is hidden in this wall.”
“Not without proper archaeological oversight,” Tommy cautions. “Samuel was adamant about that.”
“But we can document its existence,” Sid suggests. “Capture evidence that something is indeed hidden here.”
The sound of footsteps on the stairs interrupts our discussion. Tommy’s expression shifts to alarm. “No tour groups should be coming down here.”
Finn’s posture changes instantly, his body tense, a low growl rumbling in his chest.
Jonathan Reeves appears in the doorway, flanked by two men whose builds suggest security rather than sightseeing.“How convenient,” he remarks. “All the interested parties in one location.”
Tommy steps forward, his usually friendly demeanor hardening. “This area is restricted, Mr. Reeves. Lighthouse visitors are not permitted in the storage cellar.”
“I’m not a visitor,” Reeves corrects. “I’m representing the new owners of the adjacent property, conducting due diligence regarding structural supports that may affect both properties.”
The explanation sounds rehearsed, a paper-thin cover for his true interest in the cellar. His gaze shifts to the wall section we had been examining, confirming my suspicion that he knows exactly what might be hidden there.
“We were just leaving,” Sid says, moving to position himself between Reeves and me.
“Not quite yet,” Reeves counters. “Ms. Lane and I have unfinished business regarding her driftwood creation.”
“You stole it,” I state. “Return it, and we can all move on.”
Reeves sighs. “The star contains information that rightfully belongs to my investors. Information your father acquired without proper authority.”
“You mean documented before your development plans could destroy it,” Tommy interjects. “Samuel was following proper archaeological protocols.”
“He was interfering with legitimate business interests,” Reeves snaps, his polished facade cracking momentarily. “Just as his daughter continues to do.”
Finn moves closer to me, his protective instincts fully engaged. The two men with Reeves watch him warily, clearly recognizing the Giant Schnauzer as a potential threat.
“What exactly do you want, Reeves?” Sid asks.
“The completing elements Samuel Lane discovered,” Reeves answers. “We have the star, but haven’t been able to decipher all its clues. We know the final piece is here, in this lighthouse.”
“And if we help you find it?” I ask, playing for time while considering our limited options.
“You get your sentimental creation returned, we acquire a historically interesting artifact, and development proceeds as planned. Everyone wins.”
Except history, preservation, and my father’s legacy, I think but don’t say aloud.
“What makes this Star of Sebastian so valuable to your investors?” Sid inquires, his tone conversational despite the tension filling the small space.
Reeves studies Sid. “A Gillespie would understand its significance better than most. Your grandfather sought it for decades, I believe.”
So Reeves knows about Sid’s family connection to maritime artifacts. The knowledge feels dangerous, suggesting his research extends beyond development opportunities to the personal histories of those who might oppose him.
“My grandfather collected historical objects,” Sid acknowledges. “I create art from driftwood. Different approaches to appreciating maritime heritage.”
“Both ultimately possessive,” Reeves observes. “Regardless, the Star of Sebastian represents a significant historical innovation. Properly authenticated, it would command an extraordinary price in certain private markets.”
“Black markets,” Tommy states.
Reeves doesn’t bother denying the accusation. “Specialized markets for discerning collectors. The development project is merely the visible business operation. The true opportunity lies beneath these waters.”
