Storm clouds are over us, hailing rain and sleet across the docks. Small chips of ice bounce off the cement and into the sea.

In a rush of impulse, I take Jael’s hand in mine. It’s the first time I’ve felt her skin. It’s warm. I gasp for breath. My face turns red.

She squeezes.

I don’t feel the small hail pricking my skin, I don’t feel the wind gusting me toward the edge of the platform.

I feel her.

My doubts dissolve. Indecision sinks below the waves around us. I know exactly where I’m going and I know exactly why.