Chapter 131 - Flashback

Noah

Clara was drowning! My heart pounded as I ran toward the shore. But Raymond was ahead of me, sprinting down the beach. His eyes were locked on Clara’s struggling form.

Without a second thought, he dove into the water, swimming with powerful strokes toward her. My heart pounded in my chest as I watched them. I felt helpless on the shore.

Neil, who had been building a sandcastle nearby, looked up in confusion. His face paled as he realized what was happening.

“Mommy, what’s going on? Is Clara going to be okay?” he asked, his voice trembling with fear.

“She’ll be fine,” I said, though my voice lacked conviction. “Your dad is going to get her.”

I held Neil close, my eyes never leaving the water. Every second felt like an eternity as I watched Raymond reach Clara. He got to her just in time, wrapping his strong arms around her frail, trembling body.

She clung to him desperately, her face pale with terror. He pulled her toward the shore with all his strength. The waves fought against