Chapter 97: Her Mind Conjuring Only Fragmented Images

Clara blinked, her mind conjuring only fragmented images. The instructor's words acted like a sedative, easing her tightly wound nerves.

The afternoon sun scorched the ocean's surface, gradually warming the water. Wetsuits hung in the changing room. Sloane immediately chose a midriff-baring two-piece, while Clara opted for a modest one-piece.

Even so, when they stepped out, they drew admiring glances. Someone even whistled.

"First, get used to the water temperature," the instructor said, slapping the surface. "I'll take you to the safe zone."

"The lifeguard is nearby. Signal immediately if there's any problem."

Clara nodded, her gaze drifting to the shimmering sea.

"Ladies, welcome to the underwater wonderland," the instructor beamed.

The oxygen tank weighed heavily on her shoulders. Clara took a deep breath, her pulse quickening.

Sloane squeezed her hand, flashed a reassuring gesture, and dove in.

The underwater world fell silent. Light dimmed as their bodies grew heavier.

Sloane darted away like a nimble fish. The instructor signaled the depth: fifty meters.

Clara exhaled a stream of bubbles. A school of colorful fish slipped through her fingers.

A translucent jellyfish floated past, its bell pulsing. She reached out instinctively. The creature recoiled into a tiny sphere, vanishing into the blue.

The moment amused her. Her tension dissolved.

When Sloane glanced back, Clara was engrossed in chasing fish. She swam over, took her hand, and guided her toward the coral reef.

The sight stole their breath. Coral formed undulating mountains, tropical fish weaving through like living rainbows.

Clara followed the fish through a coral tunnel, pursuing a starfish. Suddenly, a shadow loomed overhead.

She looked up.

Cold eyes met hers.

Shark.

The instructor had promised this was safe. Panicked, she searched for Sloane and the instructor—both gone.

Fish scattered in terror. She kicked desperately as the shark closed in.

Nearby, a dark coral cave yawned like a void.