As I opened my heavy eyes, the hardwood shakes below me. I abruptly shoot to my feet as my friend rolls to his back and groans.

“Rudy,” I whisper. “Wake up.” nudging him a few times with my foot, eventually giving up and walking to the door in the poorly lit room.

As I reach my hand out, the room shakes again.

Another groan comes from Rudy. “Cora, please stabilize the boat.” He slaps a hand o...