The long quay

Slick green steps descend beside the lit quay to a darker, empty level where small boats lie near the quiet water. The lower landing feels wet and soft with weed, while boats move at their ropes and the sea outside lies dark beneath emerging stars. Below the quay, water taps against the steps and moored boats creak, with a broad quiet from the sea extending beyond the harbour wall.

Caleb sings the unfamiliar tune at the outer end, then retreats below after the listeners become still and a sailor asks where he learned it. He sits on a cold step with his legs drawn close and his back toward the singing above, then returns up when the tide begins falling.