I can hear Derek’s voice next to my ear, but it’s very difficult to focus on it. The world around me is glassy, and I find my head swimming—no pun intended.
It’s not until a few seconds have passed that I notice what Derek is shouting.
It’s my name.
“Esme! Can you hear me?” He’s calling, worry laced through each syllable, each breath. I’ve never heard such a fear inside of him.
“Lifeguard! Help!” He shouts out as well.
His hands reach my chest, and the compressions come in quick succession. I know I should be focused on the fact that I nearly drowned, but his touch makes my body tingle in a way I haven’t thought of before.
Holy s**t.
Then, water comes spewing out of my mouth as I start coughing heavily. The water runs down m
