DESTINY 

By Tessa Harvey


    As the boats were lowered carefully, Lester Shayle was given clear instructions and diligently followed them. There was a new deeper respect for the captain and so Lester forgot ambition and gave his all. Families were to be kept together. Crew were included in each of the six- life craft. Their experience would be invaluable.\
    Seeing the mother of the two toddlers struggling, Tom and Josh approached the captain. Josh tugged his sleeve nervously, and Tom asked if they could help. Edward looked at the eleven- year old. "Do you mean it?" he asked. They both nodded, resolute. "Fine, but you will be watched."
    "We know the little girls, sir," ventured Josh, only nine. Their so-called guardian had assumed the boys were older, or lied.
    The boats were launched safely. The last boat was of the remaining crew. Although the ship had already been checked, the captain made one final search alone.
    He descended quickly to the lowest deck, water already pouring in. He heard small cries. But no-one was missing. The captain searched quickly. Then saw two small heads swimming, desperately trying to reach him. Puppies, kittens?  Edward groaned. Time was running out. His crew waited.


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