40

CASS

The accusations fell from my mouth, each of them confirming what I’ve known was true but could never acknowledge.

Was Jacinta the first time Logan cheated, or was that just the first time I caught him? And how many other women has he hurt since we’ve been together?

But the anger I feel burning in my chest isn’t just for Logan’s lies. It’s how I’ve reacted to them. I’ve eaten them up, forcing myself to believe him, swallowing my doubts along with the pills. The same thing I did all those years ago for Eric. Brooke was right. How many lives have I ruined by failing to stand up for myself?

No more.

I watch Logan raise his arms out in front of him, his fingers firm around the gun, aimed steadfastly at Brooke. A threatening growl escapes from his lips, a sound I’ve never heard from his mouth before.

I look briefly down at my leg, the blood leaking from several deep cuts, and feel another wave of dizziness. I know what’s coming. Even if they let me live, I wouldn’t make it far in this state. And with the storm in full swing, none of the medical clinics on the island will be open.

My time is running out.

I wonder if Robin had the same realization after she drank that glass of champagne. I wonder if it’s what Lucy felt as she waited for the water to flood her lungs, or Jacinta as the rocks rushed up to meet her. Or Daniel as he felt the knife puncture his throat. So many people who didn’t have to die. Who shouldn’t have.

I’ve trusted people I shouldn’t, and in doing so, I’ve let down so many others.

But maybe there’s a way that I can fix some of this. A way that I can prevent these people—my so-called family—from taking another person’s life. A way that I can make up for letting Brooke down all those years ago.

I bend my palms flat against the muddy ground, giving me just enough support to work myself up to standing. Doug hadn’t even bothered tying my legs. Underestimating me yet again.

I conjure up my last ounce of energy, and before my mind can fully acknowledge what I’m doing, my legs are moving. I no longer feel the pain that accompanied each step before. It’s as if my body is functioning on its own.

I don’t hear the noise, the screams that come at me from all sides as the gun fires from Logan’s hands. I don’t feel the pain that I’ve prepared myself for as I throw myself in front of Brooke. Instead, I spiral toward the darkness before I can even register the bullet that slices through my chest.