"David Feintuch - Seafort 04 - Fisherman's Hope" - читать интересную книгу автора (Feintuch David)

I reached out, but he shook his head, "On the kitchen table." I dashed to the door. "Mind you wash your hands!"

I took enough time to rinse so I'd leave no grime on the towel. That would infuriate Father, and I wouldn't enjoy the consequences. I
rushed back to the kitchen, tore open the em* bossed envelope. Father waited, leaning against ttie sink, his face grave.

The Selection Board of the U.N.N.S. Naval Academy always has more qualified candidates than places. We regret to inform you that
after careful consideration we are unable.,,"

I dropped the letter on the table, blinking away a blur. Unbelieving, I snatched It up again,",,, you are to be congratulated that you were
one of the final candidates in this year's selection process. If you wish to apply again next year we would b® happy to consider..,"'"

My stinging, I ran into my room, slammed tht door, i threw myself on my bed. Footsteps, The door almost instantly. "Stand up!"

"Let me be alone for-*

"Up!" Father's tone brooked no argument. I stumbled to my feet. He stepped back into the hall, "Close your door properly,"

! I gaped. "You care more about-" His eyes narrowed and I stopped just In time. "Aye, sir." j turned the knob. tht i door quietly.
Through the door Father said, "I wonl have you slamming doors In my house."

"No, sir, I'm sorry." I crept back to my bed, kicked off my

8 ® David Felntuch

shoes. I buried my head in the pillow, determined to smother my sobs.

He gave me about an hour before he came back into the room. "May I read your letter?"

My voice was muffled. "You know what it says."

"From your reaction, yes." He paused. "They rejected you." His phrasing reduced me to helpless tears. For a moment his hand lay on my
shoulder, then it was gone, as if it had fallen by accident. "Nicholas, turn so I can see you."

"I want to be alone."

His tone was sharp. "Yes, to feel sorry for yourself."

"Why shouldn't I?" My voice was muffled.

"So you set yourself against the Lord?"

®l_What?"

Father pulled at my arm until I turned onto my back. Reluctantly, I looked to him, eyes red.

"If Lord God wanted you to attend Naval Academy, do you think they'd not have admitted you?"

I was outraged. "You're saying Hc didn't want me to go?" Father was silent. "Why should He care one way or the other? It was the stupid
Selection Board, not Him."