Yue stared blankly at James. Like that was going to happen.

James laughed. When they got back James offered his hand dramatically to help her off the boat.

Yue paused a moment, but then took his hand.

James grinned, "You trust me!"

"Don't get ahead of yourself," Yue replied blandly as she raised an eyebrow.

James nodded, "Wouldn't dream of it," and started to lead her into the kitchen.

Yue let him. She rang her hair out a little more on the way, clothes still a bit damp.

--

Before dinner, Nic finally pulled into the dock.

No one was around to meet him.

Nic didn't mind as he started to make his way to his room.

Laurel was waiting inside, sitting on the edge of the bed and kicking her heels. She had Amela in her lap, looking a more than a little lonely.

Nic walked in, not expecting her. Right away, she could tell he was a little off.

Laurel blinked up at Nic, "Oh!" she said excitedly as she stood, "You're back!" She walked with a little skip over to him, holding Amela.

Nic didn't say anything as he closed the door. He didn't seem entirely himself.

Laurel blinked, finally picking up on his strange vibe, "You okay?" he asked, touching his arm.

"... I'm fine," he told her as he walked over to sit down on the bed. She could start to tell he was more tired than usual. But there was another sort of discomfort hiding in his expression.

Laurel frowned a little, following him over, "Did something happen?" she tried again.