Mitchell calls Tony with a demand: fake an urgent counselling session this afternoon. Tony protests — he’s about to leave for a family trip — but Mitchell reminds him of their dark history and the leverage it holds. Cornered, Tony agrees, alters his records, and forges an appointment for 2 pm. His wife, Sophie, believes he’s doing something noble. Tony knows better. As she drives away, he dials Mitchell: “It’s done.”
Meanwhile, Mitchell walks through the marina. George, drunk and chatty, confirms Alan sailed to a quiet spot — one Mitchell knows well. They laugh about beachgoers, nudists, and rumours. But Mitchell’s mind is elsewhere.
He sets sail with Natasha, who sunbathes nude on the deck of Surly Mermaid. They banter about stingrays, sharks, and figurehead superstitions. Natasha beams, thinking their future is bright. She hints at her pregnancy, full of trust and affection.
But Mitchell is haunted. As she leans into him, memories of trauma surface. The Beast stirs. He’s no longer sure where fantasy ends and reality begins. Natasha’s voice morphs, becoming Sam’s. The past folds into the present. He loses control.
But at the moment of irreversible intent, Natasha breaks the spell with an innocent question. Her voice brings him back.
He hesitates.
The storm inside calms.
For now.
They turn the boat toward Lucinda Bay, unaware that fate sails just ahead of them.
[excerpt from SEETHINGS 2 — available for download now!]
Ch 14
Originally published at
https://michaelformanwriting.com
.