VALERIE

I feel Nathan and Oscar chasing after me as I run. I push my legs to go faster so they won't catch me. As soon as I spot the sea, I feel a thrill run through me. I dive into the water, not sparing a glance back at them.

I don't understand it, but whenever I am inside the water, I feel peaceful. It feels like home here. It feels safe. Nobody can hurt me here. I look through the water and see a large range of fish all swimming around. That alone makes me smile inwardly.

I raise my head slowly above the surface. I look back and...