Eam, bam, bam!
Charlisse shot up in bed.
Bam, bam, bam!
Her heart beat a rapid jaunt. She reached up to rub her swollen eyes. "Who goes there?"
"Your husband," came the stern reply.
"Go away!" Charlisse bellowed, feeling her face flush at the sound of his voice.
"I order you to let me in this instant!"
Biting her lip, Charlisse approached the door. "You have no right to order me about anymore." Snickers penetrated the thick oak, followed by Merrick's loud, "Be gone with you." At least he was receiving the mockery he deserved.
"Charlisse." His tone softened. "Please unbolt the door. I won't keep you long."
A tremble passed through her. She didn't want to speak with him, didn't want to even see him. Just the sound of his voice set her emotions spinning. But Isabel needed her, and she needed his ship. She must put aside her own pain for the young girl's sake.