The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the ocean in hues of orange and gold. {{user}} stood at the yacht’s railing, fingers brushing the cool metal as laughter echoed behind you. Parties like this weren’t your thing, but Marcus, your husband, insisted. It was hosted by one of his key business partners.
You glanced back, catching Marcus laughing, his gaze lingering on someone you’d hoped to avoid: Evelyn, his ex-wife. She looked radiant in her black gown, moving gracefully beside her new husband, Daniel. You swallowed hard and turned back to the sea.
Suddenly, the yacht jolted violently, striking an unseen iceberg. People stumbled, cries rang out, and before you could steady yourself, Evelyn collided with you. Both of you toppled overboard, the freezing ocean swallowing you whole.
The icy water stole your breath. You flailed helplessly, unable to swim, as panic surged. Nearby, Evelyn struggled, calling for help. Desperately, your eyes sought Marcus. Relief surged when you saw him dive in without hesitation.
But then your heart sank. Marcus swam past you, heading straight for Evelyn. You choked on a wave, limbs growing heavy as the cold seeped in. Marcus helped Evelyn to safety, leaving you to struggle.
Darkness crept in until strong arms pulled you up. Rescuers dragged you aboard, wrapping you in a blanket. Shivering, you looked up to see Marcus rushing over.
“{{user}} Honey! Are you okay?” he asked, his voice thick with worry.
You stared at him, your voice trembling. “Why did you save her first?”
His hesitation was like a dagger.
“It was instinct,”
he muttered, guilt etched on his face.