The crew finished refueling and resupplying the boat, getting ready to return to Pleasure Island. Joe had taken off with Glory as soon as the car rolled up, the two of them returning to her motel, no doubt, to spend the day in bed. They returned just before the boat was ready to pull away from the dock. Conn was awake by then, standing next to Hope on deck, watching the newlyweds say good-bye. “It doesn’t seem fair,” Hope said to Conn, unable to miss the glint of tears in Glory’s big brown eyes. “I mean, you and I are sleeping together. I wish there were some way—” “Hey, great idea.” Conn smiled. “Wish I’d thought of it myself.” “Thought of what?” Hope watched him take careful steps along the deck to where Joe gave Glory a last good-bye kiss. “I’ll see you soon, honey.” Joe cradled her face in his hands and gently kissed her again. “I love you.” “I love you, too, Joe.” Hope envied Glory the ease with which she spoke the words. She didn’t think she’d ever be brave enough to say those words again.
