Chapter 14:
Helena knew something was different before she opened her eyes. The boat did not move, and the boiler was cold, but she was certain she lay on the metal deck. Opening her eyes, she found herself in a cocoon of gray wool blankets, her pack right where she left it strapped to her chest.
She had been left alone, to sleep she assumed. Standing took more effort than she expected. Her knees didn’t want to work. Her legs were still wobbly, and she was hungrier than she ever remembered. Her head swam, her stomach growled in protest, at least the ordeal didn’t ruin her appetite. She yearned for one of Miss Andrea’s special steaks back at the estate. Honestly, she longed for many things back in San Francisco. Some things she would never miss.
The few steps to the door of the wheelhous
