The wave from the ship hit Leo’s boat first. The small wooden craft tilted violently to the side, throwing Leo against the railing. Water poured over the edge, soaking his boots. In a blind panic, he yanked the engine cord a third time, praying with everything he had. The motor let out a deafening roar, catching life at the absolute last possible second. Leo didn’t hesitate. He jammed the throttle handle all the way forward.
The boat shot forward, its front lifting out of the foam. Leo turned the steering handle hard, fishtailing wildly across the water just ahead of the ship. The rusted steel hull scraped past his stern, missing him by less than ten feet.
He slowed his engine down, shaking violently, staring up at the giant as it glided past.