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Show Fair Forever ' whales, I figured the Great Turtles had lived longer than most any other creatures." He paused, his eyes focused on the sea. "And I said some were magic." I catch my breath. "Magic? What did Amanda say to that?" "She didn't say a thing. She only nodded and then smiled. It was like she had known that fact all along-like she had learned more about the Great Turtles in her short life than I'd ever hope to know." I listen to the waves and watch the lighthouse blink. "The Great Turtles must be magic," I confirm. "And wise." "No doubt," he agrees. "I've always wanted to meet one, but I've never been able." He pauses, thinks. "I'll tell you something, though. I wouldn't be surprised if that girl had." "You think Amanda might have met a Great Turtle? Right here in the bay?" My heart races as I wait for his answer. The man nods and looks toward the lighthouse. "She was easy to talk to," he -epeats, smoothing his carving with his thumb. He lays his knife on his seat and then :>ails out some water with a worn, wooden scoop. I look at the lighthouse and try to gauge the distance. Three miles, or maybe four. Double that for a round trip. A long, hard pull in a skiff. The man takes a breather and leans back against his outboard. "You never answered," he says. "You never told me about the girl-about Amanda.". I hesitate, not wanting to tell everything. "She's gone," I answer simply. |