They didn’t move for a few seconds. Just stood there. Listening. Waiting. But the ocean stayed quiet. Jack ran a hand over his face. “He could’ve drifted.” Andrew nodded slowly. “Current could’ve taken him.” Jack looked out again. “Or…” He stopped. Didn’t finish it. Andrew understood anyway. He glanced back at the water beside the boat.
“…We should check below.” Jack hesitated. Then nodded. They moved quickly. Mask. Knife. Ready. If the man was under— this was their only chance. Andrew stepped to the edge. Paused. Looked down. Dark water stared back. Jack took a breath. “On three?” Andrew nodded.
“One…” “Two…” They leaned forward— Then Andrew froze. “…Wait.” Jack turned. “What?” Andrew tilted his head. Listening. At first— nothing. Then— something. Faint. Barely there. A sound that didn’t belong. Jack’s eyes narrowed. “…Did you hear that?” Andrew didn’t answer.
Because it came again. Weak. Distant. But unmistakable. A voice.