Swim After Him #67

“Stop!” you warn Valda and grab her arm firmly. It takes a few shakes, but it breaks her concentration. The scowl is normally something to be worried about, but not this time. You lean in and try to get her to smile.
“Please don’t put yourself at risk, Val—it would break me if something happened to you.”
That did it. She backs down and silently nods.
“Besides,” you grin, “I have another idea.”
The water is freezing, but you’re used to swimming in Binmeer Lake. This is nothing in comparison. You take a few sharp breaths and push out into the water.
Your arms stretch out, silently cutting through the water. You can see the boat in the distance. The soldier isn’t rowing fast.
He thinks he’s home free. Out of danger.
He has another thing coming.
You breaststroke slowly as you approach—controlling your breathing. Providence must be smiling on you, because wolves howl in the distance, masking your presence.
He’s relaxed…sitting back in the boat. Probably trying to figure out his next move.
It feels good to be such a thorn in his side.
You grin to yourself.
Trouble is, this is as far as your plan went.
You caught up to him, now what?

He’s a big guy…maybe you should tip the boat? Go to #69
Maybe you could turn the boat around while he’s resting—bring him back to shore? Go to #70