“Do you still fish up there?” “No, I haven’t for years. I’m almost as much of a novice now as you.” “Well, you missed the part about falling in,” I say. “That’s key.” “Oh, is it?” “Yeah. To celebrate a successful catch, you know. It’s a ritual to give thanks to the ocean. But don’t worry,” I say and reach out to pat his arm. His skin is warm beneath my fingers. “You’ll get there eventually.” He raises an eyebrow. “Thank you for the encouragement.” “Anytime.”
