I sputtered, catching my breath as the cool sand pressed against my back. My body still trembled from the shock of being pulled under by the current. Samantha knelt beside me, her own hair soaked and sticking to her tanned skin. She had moved with such speed and strength, it was hard to believe what had just happened.

"You’re okay now," she said in a calm, steady voice, placing a firm but gentle hand on my shoulder to ground me. Her eyes, sharp but kind, met mine as she checked me over quickly, making sure I was alert. "That was a strong rip current. You did the right thing by staying calm, but you’re out of the water now, and you’re safe."

I nodded weakly, still catching my breath, feeling the aftershock of the rescue."Just focus on your breathing," she added, her voice softening as she noticed my anxiety. "Take it slow, no rush. If you feel dizzy or light-headed, let me know, okay?"

Her presence was reassuring, and even though I had been terrified moments ago, Samantha’s calm confidence made everything feel under control.