Thicker Than Water

By Laura Quinn

Cape May, New Jersey, 1916: Siblings Danny and Shannon Culligan are trapped under the thumb of their alcoholic father. Danny's been in love with his childhood sweetheart, Jennie Martin- a wealthy cottager from Philadelphia- for as long as he can remember while her cousin, Hugh, is smitten with his sister.
As the foursome struggles to surmount the class differences between them, the nation is plunged into World War One, changing all of their lives forever. Danny is drafted into the Army and Hugh enlists in the Navy- defending the home front as a lieutenant at Cape May Section Base Number 9. While Jennie works tirelessly on the Liberty Loans campaign in Philadelphia, Shannon finds herself ensnared in a rum ring operation as the temperance movement ebbs closer to its goal of Prohibition.
A sweeping saga of betrayal, lies, and loss on all sides, Thicker Than Water, challenges readers in its exploration of the age-old question about where one's loyalties lie.

Just how far would you go to protect your family?

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: May 27, 2022
• ISBN: 9798985664409

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Cape May, New Jersey, 1906

It was the kind of summer day people look forward to all year. Late June, the afternoon sun was still high on the horizon, and the beach was scattered with cottagers enjoying themselves. An older gentleman in a bowler hat flew a kite. A family walked the waterline, their young children splashing in ankle-deep waves, each squeal louder than the last every time another one rolled in, while their mother casually twirled her lace parasol. Another group had just finished a picnic and gone to one of the nearby bathhouses to change into woolen swimsuits for a quick dip of their own.

The dunes were several yards back from the water. Their tall grass and craggy shrubs shielded the landscape from the sea before them and the promenade behind. Huddled between the mounds were a little boy and girl. One would have to look closely to find them, precisely the point. Their clothing was tattered and threadbare, the soles of their shoeless feet, black. He wore a newsboy cap two sizes too big; she- limp, plaited pigtails.

The girl clutched her stomach, greedily eyeing up the picnic basket.

I’m hungry, Danny, she whimpered, her sunken blue eyes pleading with him for something- anything- to dull the ache in her belly.

The boy frowned, his smudged face looking much older than his seven years let on. His own stomach felt like it had rocks in it. It was well past suppertime, but the only thing they’d eaten was some wild beach plums they picked yesterday.

Danny slowly shook his head. Stealin’s wrong. You know that, Shannon.

I don’t care. She crossed her arms against herself, her lower lip in a full pout as she sighed. They’ll prolly just throw it out anyway. What’s the difference?

I’ll think of somethin’. An assurance not only to her but to himself.

Shannon cast her gaze on the ocean. Pa’s been gone a long time, Danny. What if he don’t come home this time?

He will. Always does.

But, she gulped. What if…

Danny took her hands in his own, soothing her palms with his thumb the way their mother used to before tucking them into bed. His sister stared down at her feet. After a few moments, he saw her shoulders relax and knew what he had to do.

He reached into the pocket of his knickers and pulled out a gold watch. He’d put off parting with it for as long as possible, but he could count Shannon’s ribs through her calico dress, and his own arms were twigs. Tarnished though it was, the pocket watch would fetch him a pretty penny- more than enough to tide them over until Pa returned to port, God-willing with a hull full of flounder. He swallowed hard and glanced at the dunes, thinking himself lucky the Blue Pig casino was just two blocks from the ocean. Their bellies would be stuffed in no time.

His sister snatched the watch. No, Danny! You can’t- I won’t let you.

Give that back! He made a grab for it, but Shannon was too quick, tucking her arms behind herself as far as she could. "Aw, c’mon."

No. She shook her head so violently he thought it’d snap right off her neck. It’s from Ma.

Exactly. She wouldn’t want you to starve, Shannon. Neither do I. Now, gimme it.

This time he simply held out his palm, but she backed away.

Bad enough Pa sold the locket she gave me. Her voice trembled. This is all we have left. Please Danny, she begged as her eyes welled up, I miss her. I miss her so much.

He missed her too. Terribly. He’d give anything to hear the sound of her voice just one more time.

Okay, he relented, and she threw her tiny arms around him. Danny pulled her in, her tears flowing freely now. He brushed a greasy blonde braid over her shoulder and leaned in closer. We have each other, he assured her. I’ll always take care of you, Shannon. Always.

She broke the hug, using a sleeve to wipe her nose. Promise?

Danny grinned. He traced an index finger over the leftover scrap of rope now serving as his suspenders. Cross my heart.

And hope to die?

He shot her a quizzical look, and she poked him in the ribs.

And hope to die, Danny pledged.

That was the first time his sister smiled- really smiled- since their Ma had passed.

I hope you don’t though, Shannon was quick to add.

Well, he chuckled, that makes two of us.

CHAPTER 1

Ten Years Later

No sooner had Remembrance Day passed and Cape May was abuzz preparing for the Fourth of July. It was all anyone could talk about for weeks, the Star and Wave promising a gala day on the waterfront. To this end, the resort did not disappoint.

Jutting a thousand feet over the mighty Atlantic, the Iron Pier was alive with the spirit of American patriotism. Spectators crammed both sides of her lower levels. They cheered under an ink-black, cloudless sky- a perfect canvas for the coming fireworks display save for the sliver of moon glistening off the water.

Up on the third tier, the new electric lights switched on, illuminating the massive ballroom as the orchestra continued warming up. The place was splattered in red, white, and blue. Banners and bunting draped the banquet tables as well as the grandstand. More flags peeked out from the red rose centerpieces on the guest tables, all while a gargantuan portrait of Woodrow Wilson looked on approvingly.

None of this mattered to Danny Culligan.

All he could think about was his sweetheart, Jennie. Jennie Martin. He felt himself grinning like an idiot and forced his mouth to imitate the stern thin line of the men around him. She should be arriving soon. Any minute now, he imagined.

Class differences forced the couple to see each other in secret for years. But tonight? Tonight, he’d finally be able to hold her in public. It was also his best shot at impressing her millionaire father.

Danny was a hard worker. He wasn’t rich by any means but knew he could prove himself worthy if given the opportunity. He’d show the older man just how much his daughter was cherished. Hopefully, by next July, Jennie would have a new last name.

Knowing their future was on the line, the punch bowl was all too inviting. But Danny didn’t want to have liquor on his breathe in the event Mr. Martin turned out to be a teetotaler. Instead, he checked his pocket watch and frowned- only five minutes had passed since he last looked. He shoved it back in his jacket and turned his attention to inspect his fingernails.

Neatly trimmed. Not a trace of fish. Good.

Danny scanned the room. Nothing.

Where is she?

He chewed the inside of his cheek, then glanced down at his feet. Could’ve buffed his shoes a bit more.

Stop fidgeting, his sister scolded as he went to reach for the watch again.

I’m not, he mumbled.

You are. She turned to face him head-on, wearing her usual confident smirk as she helped him square his shoulders. You didn’t expect the Martins to be here yet, did you? Her aunt likes to make an entrance.

Danny shrugged. Shannon was usually right. That he was older needn’t matter. Irish twins born ten months apart, she was his closest confidant.

How was the parade, he asked to distract himself.

His sister rolled her eyes. Overdone. She gestured to their surroundings. Just as this is. One of the floats even had a pyramid of shells from that munitions plant on Higbee Beach.

No kidding?

No, Shannon quipped, lips tight. So wasteful for just one day. But, hey, if the cottagers want a parade, they’ll have a parade. And in two months’ time they’ll be gone for the season. Moved on with their lives just as they always do.

He felt the slight keenly. Stop it, Shannon.

Stop what?

Putting her down.

I wasn’t.

You were and you know it.

This was neither the time nor the place for them to have this discussion. Again. Shannon would always remain part of his life. True, she’d be in a different role, but Danny would never abandon her. How could he? She was the one who patched him up after Pa was in one of his dark moods. The one who knew how to cover the bruises and, where she couldn’t, how to lie about their origin. Shannon knew him better than he knew himself. Except where Jennie was concerned.

Can we talk about this more at home? he asked in a quiet voice.

Up went the barrier he knew so well. With an icy glare, she drifted a few steps away from him, smoothing her skirts before leaning casually against one of the columns.

Several minutes passed, and there was still no sign of Jennie. Danny grasped the watch again. Clenching and unclenching it, he stole a glance at Shannon to see if she was watching him and was surprisingly hurt to find she wasn’t.

Arms crossed against herself, his sister scowled at the portrait of President Wilson as if she wanted to slap him. Shannon always felt everything so intensely, as if the whole world were against her. Danny hated quarreling with her. Deep down, he knew, even if he danced with Jennie all night, completely wowed her father, he couldn’t be truly happy knowing Shannon was upset with him.

Hands in his pockets, he strode over and followed her gaze. His nose is a bit off, don’tcha think?

Leave it to you to make jokes at a time like this.

Like what?

Shannon clicked her tongue and shook her head in disgust. "German U-boats patrolling the coast. Yacht club full of Navy ships. And we’re the ones who have to live with it."

She inched closer, drawing her chin up, a caged look in her blue-gray eyes. I worry about you, she whispered.

Shannon—

No, I do. Every time you leave port. And when the war comes….

Not gonna happen. Wilson’s a pacifist.

Her eyes flashed. "Perhaps you’ve been too busy mooning about to pay attention, brother. He’s also running for re-election. It’s been over a year since the Lusitania. This ball? These people? They want justice. But it’s not their kind who gets drafted."

So that was it, then. She was afraid he’d go off to fight and never come back.

Danny regarded her thoughtfully. Her blonde mane was piled high atop her head, with just a few loose tendrils accentuating her high cheekbones and swan neck. She certainly wasn’t a little girl anymore. Not on the outside, anyway.

Remember our promise? he asked. It’s still true.

Shannon looked down at her hands in respite. It was then he realized the family resemblance. How had he not seen it before? They never spoke of her, but Danny couldn’t help himself.

You look just like her.

Who?

Ma.

Her cheeks flushed. You really think so?

From what I remember, yeah. Spittin’ image. He cupped her shoulder and nodded. She’d be so proud of you. I sure am.

Shannon gave him a playful bump with her elbow. Layin’ it on thick, aren’t we?

I mean it.

Well, then, she grinned, I’ll take the compliment.

Good. Danny smiled, too. Y’know Shannon, he added, If you let yourself, you just might have a nice time tonight. Think you can do that for me?

I’ll try. Best I can offer.

That’s my girl.

He knew it was asking a lot. That he was pushing his sister well out of her comfort zone. But if Danny were to put his best foot forward with Mr. Martin, he needed his conscience clear.

At the podium, the conductor tapped his baton. Lights dimmed. Voices hushed.

Danny peeked at his watch before surveying the crowd. Everything was blurry, as if the ballroom had suddenly been lowered into the sea. Girls checked their dance cards, faces giddy, their laughter was garbled. The orchestra began the first stanza of Strauss’s The Blue Danube. That, too, sounded off- like his ears were clogged.

Couples brushed by to the dance floor, and Danny’s chest tightened. He and Jennie were supposed to be out there with them. He grabbed the watch again, but his palm was clammy, and he couldn’t get a tight grip. What’s happening to me? Meanwhile, his heart thundered against his ribcage. Faster and faster and faster. Too afraid to care whether it was gentlemanly or not, he gulped, uselessly tugging at his collar for any chance at precious oxygen.

Just then, the double doors of the main entrance flung open. The Martin party had finally arrived.

Every eye in the room turned to Jennie’s aunt, Gertrude Callaway. Dripping in diamonds, the matriarch was escorted in on the arm of her son, Hugh. Tiffany tiara, cascading ear bobs, three rows of studs on her dog collar, cuffs over the gloves on each wrist, a belt to minimize her middle-aged waist- even the chandeliers couldn’t compete. All Danny could see was Jennie.

His smile was momentary, his relief- fleeting. She was on the arm of another man.

CHAPTER 2

Ready, Miss Martin?

Jennie swallowed the bile rising up in her throat and plastered on her most demure smile. To her escort, she replied, Joseph, thank you for filling in for Father. The family is most appreciative.

Happy to be of service, her companion smiled- the triumphant assurance of a king.

I’m sure you are. Now, let’s get this over with.

Joseph York the Third was the last person Jennie thought she’d be attending the ball with. Her cousin’s friend from Harvard, Mr. York deserted his usual Newport set and took a suite at the Stockton Hotel for the season. Her aunt, of course, was delighted. With no family of his own in town, it was only natural for him to join their party. Old money, like her mother’s side. Not that Jennie needed a reminder- Gertrude herself sufficed daily. Tall, dark, and indeed handsome, he was sure to make some deb ‘an excellent match.’

Just not her. She’d long since lost her heart. Didn’t expect to get it back anytime soon either.

Joseph no sooner led them into the ballroom when her cousin approached.

Cocktail in one hand, Hugh slung his free arm over the other man’s shoulder. There’s some alumni here I think you should meet. Wanna talk about the team’s chances next season.

Oh? asked the barracuda.

Hugh’s brown eyes twinkled. You don’t mind, do you Jen?

Of course not.

"I’m taking them out on the Crusader day after tomorrow, Hugh told Joseph as they walked away. The striper are running if you care to join us." Her cousin looked back over his shoulder and gave Jennie a wink.

Thank you, she mouthed, and he cocked his head in acknowledgment.

Jennie bit her lip, her hazel eyes frantically searching for Danny. Maybe -just maybe- she prayed, he hadn’t arrived yet.

No such luck. There, along a column in the far corner of the room, two sets of piercing blue eyes stared back at her- one in horror; the other, pure rage. She took a purposeful step in their direction when a silken hand grasped her shoulder.

Your dance card, dear, Gertrude leered.

No. Not now, she didn’t have time for this. Jennie’s hand shook as she perused the pamphlet.

How is it already full? she asked, searching her aunt’s face for an answer, a trace of emotion even, yet Gertrude’s mouth remained in the same thin line as always.

You know you can’t be left with these decisions. You’re not out yet, dear.

I don’t even know half these names.

All good families, I assure you. Though I’m sure you recognize Mr. York’s.

How could I miss it? Jennie scoffed. He claimed five dances. Couldn’t you have at least added Hugh to the list?

Gertrude’s eyes darted around them. Remember yourself, young lady, she growled. You have a duty to this family just like the rest of us. This little mishap in the papers will blow over much more smoothly if we shoulder the burden together, do you understand?

Jennie understood, alright. Understood that she didn’t have any control over her own life. Hoping he’d see she was detained, she threw a quick glance in Danny’s direction. Hands in his pockets, he looked down at the floor.

She swallowed hard; she’d never hurt him purposely. Surely he knew that. Tonight was supposed to be about them, about finally being together in the open instead of sneaking around. Her declaration to her father, to Gertrude, to the world, that -out yet or not- she was spoken for.

Jennie had to fix this right here and now, thoughts of tearing up the dance card fueling her resolve. Once Danny heard her explanation, everything would be back on track. Of course, he’d forgive her. Right?

Look at me when I’m speaking to you, her aunt commanded. Answer the question.

Yes, she mumbled.

"E-nun-ciate."

Yes, Aunt Gertrude. I understand.

Good. Gertrude gave a curt nod of approval. Stick to the script and you’ll do just fine. Now, dear, if you’ll excuse me, I must make my rounds.

Jennie’s cheeks blazed. Though not specific to Father, the headlines were damaging enough considering his thick accent. It started when the New York World reported the German-American Alliance supported the Kaiser’s war effort, which was absolutely preposterous. Still, the press spilled blood in the water and created a feeding frenzy among the other papers. How could they print such lies? Fearmongering, that’s what it was, pure and simple. She was proud of her heritage- proud of her father and the company he’d built. He was only a child when he left Bavaria. Alone, for that matter. If the papers could lie, Jennie supposed she could, too. Her mantra about Father being home under the weather slipped out with frightening ease.

She looked over at the column again, but both Culligans were gone. Five minutes in, the ball was already a complete and utter disaster. Still, Jennie had a role to play, and the pressure was on. Until she could speak with Father about her feelings for Danny, she had to perform.

The night dragged on and on. One boring conversation after the other, most of them about Father- her suitors fishing to estimate the size of her dowry. She smiled and nodded; laughed at all their terrible jokes. Any innocent bystander would think she was having a fabulous time. This was good because, somewhere amongst the crowd, Gertrude was watching her like a hawk.

All the while, Jennie kept her eyes peeled for Danny. To keep herself sane, she allowed her mind to wander, daydreaming she wasn’t really dancing with Mr. Jones (of-the-Baltimore-Joneses), but him. Danny. Her Danny.

Most nights, they simply lay together by the lake. Her head on his chest, he’d pet her hair as they traced the constellations, never ceasing to find brave Perseus and Andromeda. Danny told her stories about the pirates that used to land on the surrounding shoreline, and, knowing he’d pull her closer, Jennie pretended to be afraid.

They both wished the giant elephant attraction Jumbo was still around. Jennie had seen its sister in Atlantic City, but he’d never been that far up the coast. We’ll go there sometime, she promised.

Miss Martin?

The spell was broken, and she found herself staring back at a very perplexed Mr. Jones.

Yes?

I asked if you cared for some punch.

Jennie glanced at the buffet to hide her embarrassment. She saw Shannon enter the ladies’ bathroom out of the corner of her eye. Finally- this was just the kind of chance she’d been waiting for.

No, thank you. Smoothing her arms along her corseted bodice, she added, I’m actually feeling a bit fatigued. Would you excuse me while I freshen up?

Jones bowed, and Jennie seized her moment, hastily borrowing a pencil from one of the staff on her way to the lavatory. Once inside, she retrieved a calling card from her purse and scribbled as fast as she could.

Darling-I can explain.

The Spot. Same time.

All my love. ~J

There. Now, all she had to do was wait for Shannon to come out. The longest minute in the world passed. She couldn’t have missed her, could she? Then what would she do?

Her feet swelled in her heels, so she plopped down on one of the velvet settees. Might as well take advantage of it while she could. Tempting as it was to hide out in the bathroom all evening, her aunt would eventually come looking for her.

Two girls about her age entered, and Jennie tilted her head in acknowledgment. It was better for her to appear aloof- she couldn’t risk getting caught up in conversation right now- though, apparently, there was no chance of that.

Kraut, one of them sneered on her way to the mirror.

Jennie balled her hands in her lap. They’re just jealous. Of what, though? Empty-headed boys, who only cared about her money?

I heard her father won’t even show his face, said the taller of the two in a loud whisper.

Her companion nodded. "Well, I heard they’re going back to Philadelphia. She pinched her nose. The stench of it this time of year."

I know. Why, it’s almost as bad as…Liberty Cabbage.

Both girls snickered.

Come now, ladies, said a third voice, don’t you have anything better to talk about?

Jennie looked up, speechless. Shannon? She certainly didn’t expect to be defended by someone who was shooting daggers at her only hours before.

The tall girl raised an eyebrow through the mirror. Excuse me?

Shannon eyed the girl up and down. Those shoes with that dress? Inexcusable. Her opponent’s nostrils flared, and Shannon cackled. Truth hurts, doesn’t it?

Well, I never! the girl spat, grabbing her friend by the elbow. Come on, Harriet.

Jennie intended on waiting until their footsteps faded to offer her thanks when the other woman spoke first.

Don’t get any ideas. Shannon’s voice had a harder edge to it now.

Pardon?

I did it for him, not you. He left, by the way. Not that’cha care.

But I do! Jennie was on her feet now. The calling card folded several times over, she extended a shaky hand.

Shannon eyed the note the way one looked at a mosquito before swatting it.

Still, Jennie rationalized, if she were able to look beyond her disdain once, Shannon might just do it again. Everyone had their soft spots, after all. Hit on the right one, the preverbal Achilles heel, and she’d win her over. Those catty girls had certainly brought out a fierce sense of loyalty by association. Jennie felt slightly guilty about exploiting something so profoundly personal, but what choice did she have?

Shannon huffed and started to walk around her. It was now or never.

Chin up, Jennie blocked her. She pressed the note in Shannon’s palm, curling the other woman’s fingers around it. For him, she said solemnly.

A slight nod was her only reply, and Shannon dashed off.

The grandfather clock down the hall struck one. Jennie re-read her latest journal entry and closed the book, patting its leather cover before locking it back in her desk. Shoulders stiff, she returned to her bed and pulled a pillow onto her lap. What if Shannon changed her mind? Tore her note into teeny-tiny shreds and threw them into the ocean?

There was no doubt Danny’s sister loved him dearly. Jennie replayed their short discussion over and over. All she kept coming back to was, I did it for him, not you. His well-being meant a lot to Shannon, Jennie told herself. She’d deliver the message.

The hour grew late. Jennie strained her ears for the sound of his car, but all she could hear was the rushing surf. The possibility Danny received her note and ignored it never occurred to her. Once hatched, the terrible thought was all-consuming.

"O happy dagger!" Jennie never fully comprehended the magnitude of the statement until now. Despite lesson upon lesson, much to her governess’s chagrin, she’d always thought Juliet over-dramatic. The play was a tragedy- it was all to get a rise from the audience. Of course, she hadn’t understood it before. Danny’s love was as constant as the North Star. Warm and bright. He was everything to her. That she could lose him left her broken, empty. Worse still was knowing it was of her own doing, his crestfallen face all she could see every time she closed her eyes. Destraught, Jennie stuffed her face in the pillow to muffle the sobs she could no longer contain. Shakespeare was right all along.

She rose from the bed and peered through her lace curtains. The sky was as dark as her heart. She squinted, holding her breath as she prayed.

The Model T was there as usual.

Jennie covered her mouth with her hands, chiding herself for ever doubting him. How long had he been out there? Her eyes were dewy again- joy was a much better reason to cry, but she hadn’t time to let herself. Ever thankful for the wraparound porch, out the window she went, tiptoeing across its roof on the far side nearest the dunes. She shimmied down the pole while Danny cranked the engine.

He wouldn’t even look at her. They rode in stone silence along the dark beach road. No head lamps- they couldn’t chance it. Having traveled the route countless times, both knew it by heart. She wanted to tell him to slow down but managed to hold her tongue.

It wasn’t long before they reached the lake on the island’s far side, the Ford rolling to a stop on its gravel shore. The Spot. Craggy trees dotted its perimeter, down Signal Hill all the way to the bay, the thick scent of beach plum and honeysuckle blossoms clung in the mist coming off the water. Crickets and bullfrogs their only companions, a melody sweeter than any Jennie heard earlier in the evening.

Slam! Danny got out without a word. He stormed toward the willow tree a few yards off. Grabbing the blanket from the backseat, Jennie hurried after him.

I’m sorry! she called.

That you’re ashamed of me? You should be sorry, Jennie. His back toward her, he didn’t budge.

Jennie blinked furiously. Danny, it’s not like that.

Well how is it, then?

She finally caught up to him, the tree’s sweeping boughs dancing in the gentle sea breeze. Jennie reached for his arm, then stopped herself. If it were only up to her, it’d be different. They just needed more time.

It’s complicated. Please, if you’d just let me explain…. She choked back a sob. "God, I hate this."

Danny finally turned to face her. He slid a callous hand into hers and gave it a light squeeze.

Forgive me? he asked. I’m an ass.

Overcome, she could only nod.

We’ll get through this. I love you, Jennie Martin. Cupping her cheeks, he wiped away the tears with his thumbs. Complicated or not, nothin’s gonna change that.

Jennie sniffled and shook her head resolutely. I have a plan.

CHAPTER 3

Three days later, the Culligan siblings were in their bedroom, conspiring Danny’s next move. Shannon eyed his reflection in the vanity mirror.

"That’s her plan? Golfing with Daddy? Danny, you can’t be serious."

C’mon, Shannon, he pouted from his seat at the foot of the bed. Give her a little credit.

She ignored him, turning her attention to her hair, yanking the horsehair brush root to tip. Each stroke was harder than the last. Should’a never given him that note. This was the thanks she got? Shannon rose from the bench and marched toward him. Arms akimbo, she stopped short, forcing him to look up.

Danny tilted his head. It’ll work.

Oh, really? When did you last play, huh? That time you and Will Barkley snuck into the country club doesn’t count.

His silence answered the question, and he crossed his arms against himself.

Shannon plopped down next to him. Anyone we know caddying there this summer? They could at least help you choose the right club.

None I can think of. Danny shook his head. I’ll just ask Hugh to give me some pointers beforehand.

You’re sure he’s on board with this?

Yes.

Good. At least she could feel secure about one thing. Hugh Callaway was a good friend to both of them. He certainly didn’t take after his mother, it must’ve been the boarding schools. Tell me more.

Walter Martin’s a self-made man. Emigrated here when he was a kid. Ended up working at some glassworks up in Gloucester. Learned the craft, now look at him.

She arched a brow. He sounded so smug. "If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were the one who made all that money."

Danny bumped his shoulder against her. He’s a scrapper, alright. That’s what Jennie says, anyway.

That grin. That stupid, lopsided grin. Every time he said her name.

And? What, exactly? She thinks he’ll see himself in you?

Her brother nodded.

Hmm.

Now what? he snapped.

She looks down her nose at you and all you can do is smile?

You’re doing it again, Shannon. Twistin’ everything around. Danny put his hands on his knees and looked away from her.

He was so blind when it came to Jennie, Shannon thought bitterly. Always had been.

The girl had everything. Her father owned the largest cottage on the island. So big, in fact, the workers split it in half when they moved Juniper Grove closer to town from the beach. In two, it remained, the Martins summering on the east side, that dreadful aunt on the west.

Shannon perused her own shanty bedroom with a frown, wondering if Jennie knew her beloved slept on its grimy floor with little more than a well- worn secondhand quilt from the church and a pile of clothes for his pillow. Probably not, she decided. Their world was a stage. She and Danny did their best to keep those outside from seeing behind the curtain. Sure, some locals might have suspicions, but nobody ever said anything outright. They knew John Culligan well enough to know what would happen if they did.

Her eyes fell on the doorframe, where the pale blue gown she’d borrowed from the eldest Barkley girl was waiting to be cleaned. Add it to the list. There was always something to do and never enough time to do it—cooking, mending, emptying the chamber pot, boiling the weekly bath. Meanwhile, Jennie had closets full of Worth dresses, each tailored to her personal specifications, never worn more than once. Never knew the word hunger, either—Martin’s personal chef and staff ensured that their dinner parties were the talk of the town from the Main Line to the Cape.

Just thinking about it made Shannon’s stomach rumble. They were out of flour again, but she made sure Danny and Pa got their eggs. Black coffee would have to suffice for now—it hadn’t failed her yet. She tried to envision Jennie bargaining with the hucksters, tirelessly preserving what little damaged goods they offered, but Shannon couldn’t. Why were some people born into one lot in life while others, another? And what had she ever done to deserve hers? Jennie Martin already had everything. Yet even that wasn’t enough for the spoiled little bitch.

Assuming Walter Martin was agreeable to marrying his darling daughter to a fisherman’s son, which was still a stretch in her mind, there was no way in hell Jennie’s aunt would allow it. And then there was Pa to contend with. Shannon shivered at the thought of living alone with him, gazing with envy out the window as a pair of gulls glided by.

She glanced back at Danny, aching at the growing distance between them. Her intentions were good. Buried under fear and a healthy dose of envy, yes, but good nonetheless.

I’m just trying to look out for you.

He let out a heavy sigh. I wish you could see her the way I do. There’s a lot more to her than you think.

Look, I know she cares about you, Danny. Though her tongue bled, she was careful to leave out the "in her own way her heart was screaming. The plan has flaws. I don’t want to see you get your heart broken."

It won’t.