| |
My chest tightened. I needed air.
Kai followed me to the surface.
I drew in deep, steady breaths to calm the twisting in my stomach. I hadn’t wanted anyone to die. And yet...
“It’s over then?” I said. “Does this mean I no longer need to find proof?”
Before he could answer, a hand fell on my shoulder.
“Hazel, are you all right?”
Mom’s voice was soft, barely above a whisper. She and Benton flanked my sides and lifted me by my arms.
I locked eyes with Kai who’d retreated so only his head and shoulders were above the water.
“Yes, thank you,” I said.
“Who’s he?” Benton murmured.
“A friend. We’re both safe. Everything seems to have worked out.”
Kai nodded to me and smiled. Our gaze broke as Mom and Benton led me away—to Pap’s house.
Each time I looked back over my shoulder, I saw less of Kai.
Until he was gone.