Book excerpt: Meredith's under attack. Meredith has fallen in love with the Captain, but their relationship is threatened by her aunt's probable disapproval of their age difference and Meredith's fear of sexual intimacy. Although the Captain knows nothing about Meredith's unfortunate past, he has to date been considerate and patient with her. Meredith was so ashamed of her behavior at the end of "The Captain’s Girl" that she wouldn’t leave the cabin she shares with her best friend Kate. The Captain has tried his best to reach her, but to no avail. Meredith has shrunk back into herself again. Only an event of unexpected drama can free her from her self-imposed imprisonment. Will the Captain continue to try to breach her defenses? Will fate lend him a helping hand? (The adult content of the story makes the series suitable for those of 18 and over.)