Splash, pull lift,

Splash pull lift.

The muscles in my back ache as I paddle furiously. It’s started raining on the lake, pelting against my bright yellow rain jacket.

I hear the motors behind me. The boats will be closing in any minute now.

I can feel the blisters on the hands about to break open, but I can’t stop now.

Splash, pull, lift

Splash, pull, lift

My ragged breathing echoes in my ears, heart pounding in my chest.

I have to get to the safe house. They’ll never find me there.