Rick Yancey The Infinite Sea Novels & Stories

I just need a little space, a little fresh air before I go back. I jump a little as I feel a presence slide into the bar seat beside me, their energy is electric but I’m so drained I don’t even look up to see who they are. Then a smooth voice, deep, velvet perfection breaks through my pity party “Are you really here alone?” It’s like I’m hypnotised by it and I can’t help but look this time. My breath catches in my throat at the most beautiful man I have ever seen. Floppy dark hair that almost falls into his eyes, olive skin, an athletic physique, two perfect dimples either side of his captivating smile and the most incredible amber eyes you could imagine.

When I was five, I was always excited whenever it was time for bed. My Grandma Momma will cook our dinner. Let me brush my teeth and comb my long hair. And after that, she will put me into bed and bedtime stories will follow. She told me a lot of fantasy stories, but my favorite was the pirate of the Lost Sea named Escarial. He was the epitome of perfection. Gentleman, handsome, a knight in shining armor to most of the ladies in their land, and most of all, he caught the heart of the brave princess, Athalia.

All I could do was let one last terrified scream as my body plunged deep into the vast waters. Pain… That was all I could feel from the electricity burning through my body, to the water drowning me and filling up my lungs. My life force was dissipating bit by bit as the waves drifted me aimlessly. All I could do was extend my hands upwards trying to hold on to life as the water pulled downwards. “Save me.” I lifelessly whispered and pleaded to God.

He thought recklessly. Namir was worried that Nemiah hadn't eaten anything yet so he gently removed his lap from Nemiah’s head and he went to the water to catch some fish again. The water was cold but his body was warm enough to relieve the freezing temperature. He was just wearing a tiger-printed loincloth around his waist, and his well-built abdomen was exposed to the harsh breeze. He took the golden dagger tucked on his waist and dived into the icy water. A loud splash disrupted the calm waves and the shadow of the moon on the water was altered. The moonlight was enough for him to see moving creatures under the dark sea. He saw a giant cuttlefish so he pushed through the water to catch it

Yet the crew held him back, preventing him from jumping into the raging sea. In the middle of the chaos above, below, among the rolling waves, Carl surfaced several times, waving for help. Seeing this, the crew quickly lowered ropes and buoys for him to grab, but the fierce wind and high waves pushed Carl under again. The old man resigned himself. He wasn't sure he'd survive. His chest tightened as water filled his lungs. His body became uncontrollable. The violent sea made it impossible for Carl to balance himself and take a breath. He was convinced he would die that night.