Chapter 2

I stare at the photo for a long time, then close my phone.

For the three years I've been with Sebastian, Jessica's always acted like she hates him.

They argue every single time they meet.

I've tried everything to keep the peace.

Now I see—they must've thought I was a total idiot.

The next morning, I arrive at the aquatic center early.

As team leader of the anti-doping unit, I need to run equipment checks before competition week.

I don't expect Seb and his teammates to be there already.

"Hey, it's Seb’s girlfriend!" Luke calls out with a grin.

"What brings you here? Coming to watch your man train?"

I bite down hard and keep my voice even.

"Just passing through. Routine check."

Seb smiles at me, all charm.

"Admit it—you missed me."

"After practice I'll drive you home. I'm craving your cooking."

I dodge his arm and force a tight smile.

"No need. I've got a meeting later. Eat on your own."

His face darkens instantly.

The old me would've apologized. Softened. Found a way to make him happy.

Now I feel nothing.

A familiar voice calls out from the entrance.

Jess glides over in a white sundress, all smiles.

She hooks her arm through mine, acting all sweet.

"Bestie! I knew you'd be here."

"Are you free this afternoon? Come shopping with me?"

Seb steps between us, pulling Jess away from me with exaggerated annoyance.

"Wendy's spending tonight with me. You—" he points at Jess, "—go find yourself a boyfriend already."

Jess pouts and punches his chest playfully.

"Shut up! Wendy and I are gonna be best friends forever. You're just the third wheel here."

Back and forth.

Back and forth.

I stand there like a spectator at someone else's show.

The other swimmers watch us with knowing looks. Like they're in on the joke.

Finally—maybe realizing something's off—Seb turns to me with an awkward laugh.

"Aren't you gonna tell your best friend to stop bullying me?"

I close my eyes for a second. Then open them.

"You two seem to be bonding just fine on your own."

Their smiles freeze. They exchange a glance.

Jess recovers first, grabbing my hand, pouting. "Who wants to bond with him? If it weren't for you, I wouldn't give him the time of day."

I'm done watching this performance.

I turn to leave—and Jess stumbles. Her hand clamps around my arm and yanks me sideways.

We both hit the water.

The second I go under, a vicious cramp seizes my calf. I can't kick. Can't push up. All I can do is thrash.

"Seb! Help me!" Jess screams his name from the surface.

Water floods my nose, my throat.

Seb dives in without hesitation—grabs Jess's arm—and pulls her to safety.

Not me.

Through the blur, I think I hear someone shout my name. Far away.

"Dude—Wendy's still under!"

Then everything goes dark.