The pier was empty, the evening chill biting through me. The water that nearly took Milina now lay still, haunting me with the memory of her flailing before slipping under.

Preston and his family had pushed dark humor too far this time. Only a stranger’s quiet kindness had saved her, disappearing as suddenly as he appeared, leaving a fragile thread of hope.

Hours later, in the hospital, the doctor said, “She’s stable. We’ll know more once she’s awake.” Relief and anger collided—I wanted justice for what Preston and Garrett had done.

When Milina’s eyes opened, she whispered, “Mom.”

“I’m here, sweetheart. You’re safe now.”

Outside, the stars shone cold and distant. Somewhere, reckoning had begun—and I hoped it would find its mark.