Cirrus unrolled the updated map onto the crate-table. “Banns, take it away,” he encouraged.
Vivienne took a steadying breath, focusing on the map. “From the higher vantage point, we had a clearer view of the island. We found what appear to be ruins here,” she pointed to the locations, “and a large, burned tree here.”
Thorne folded his arms. “Captain, our intel indicated this island was never inhabited. Have we been misinformed?”
Cirrus raised a hand. “I don’t think anyone knew about the ruins before today.”
Vivienne pressed her lips together.My mother did. She sketched them in her journal.
Captain Garrett hooked his thumbs through his belt. “And what do you propose we do with these findings, Miss Banner?”
Vivienne glanced at the three men, gauging their reactions. Cirrus gave a subtle nod, urging her forward.
“The ruins are closer to camp. We can learn about the island’s past and maybe find some clues about the tribute we’re looking for. I suggest we start there.”
Garrett nodded. “Theodosia, any objections?”
“None, sir.” Cirrus grinned.
Vivienne looked down, hiding her own smile.
“Excellent,” the captain declared. “Commander Thorne and I will determine tomorrow’s exploration team.”
* * *
Vivienne sat under Cirrus’canopy, savoring the last bites of a lemon tart when familiar footsteps halted behind her.
“You havepastries?” Lewis whispered in mock outrage. “You’ve been holding out on me!”
She spoke around a mouthful, unfazed. “In my defense, you weren’t speaking to me yesterday.”
“Uh, not a defense,” he countered, laying his bedroll beside hers. “If you have them now, you had them on the ship. That’s textbook pastry treason.”
Vivienne pressed her wrists together. “Fine, guilty as charged.”
Lewis eyed the bag. “I might grant immunity… if you share.”
“How generous of you.” She rolled her eyes, tossing him a chunk of glossy bread.
They ate, exchanging stories. Lewis’ discoveries among the foraged plants, Vivienne’s grueling climb and new sections of the map. She left out the kiss. No need to test his reaction to that.
Another set of footsteps approached. Judging by Lewis’ flat expression, it was either Cirrus or Commander Thorne.
“Hello again, Blume,” Cirrus drawled.
“Hi, Cici,” Lewis shot back, making Vivienne bite back a laugh. Cirrus had always hated the nickname Lewis bestowed on him.
She glanced up as Cirrus settled onto his bedroll. Somehow, he still looked put together while she felt like a walking disaster. Days without a proper bath, drenched in sweat.Disgusting.“Please tell me there’s a way to get clean here.”
Cirrus signaled to the trees on his right. “There’s a stream east of camp. It has fresh-water pools deep enough to sit in.”
Vivienne sighed in anticipated relief. “That sounds amazing.”
Cirrus’ smirk was instant. “You know, I could show you around?—”
She scoffed. “I think I’ll manage.”
“How thoughtful, Cici,” Lewis cut in. “I’ll let the crew know you’re offering guided tours of the stream.”
