Chapter 4

The current pulled me deeper, the roaring water filling my ears as darkness crept in from the edges of my vision. I didn't fight it. Each second beneath the surface felt like a step away from the pain, from Ryan's rejection, from Melissa's triumphant smile. From the crushing weight of a life shattered beyond repair.

My lungs burned, demanding air I had no intention of seeking. As consciousness began to slip away, a strange peace settled over me. I thought of Lucas one last time, his small face peaceful in sleep, and hoped that somehow, somewhere, he would know his…