beach

Ariel laid limp in the lifeguard’s arms as he emerged from the waves and laid her down on the sand. She wasn’t moving.

“This is Chuck, reporting in,” the lifeguard said. “I’ve rescued the subject. Checking vital signs.”

Carmen looked on, rolling her eyes and shaking her head. Chuck leaned over Ariel to listen for signs of breathing, and her eyes opened. She kissed him on the cheek.

“Thanks, Chuck,” she said. “A pleasure, as always.”