Behind them, the orca surfaced again. It followed close, its tall fin slicing through the water in time with the boat’s motion. “It’s escorting us,” Catherine said, breath shallow. Her voice wavered with both pain and wonder.
Another contraction clenched her face. She winced but stayed focused on the water. “Tell him thank you.” John couldn’t speak. His throat tightened. He lifted a hand instead, silent gratitude. The orca rose briefly near the port side, then dropped beneath the waves again, matching their pace.