The lake was calm, sunlight glinting off the water in sparkling shards. Effy stood at the edge, arms crossed, hood up, a frown tugging at her lips.

“I don’t… I can’t,” she muttered, eyes fixed on the water like it was a wall she couldn’t climb.

“You can,” you said gently, stepping closer. “I’ll be right here. I won’t let anything happen.”

She shook her head, stubborn and wary. “I don’t want to drown.”

“You won’t,” you said, smiling softly. “We’ll start slow. Just the shallow end. I’ll hold you if you need it.”

After a long pause, she finally sighed, letting you take her hand. Together, you stepped into the water. It was cold at first, and she tensed instantly, muscles stiff, eyes wide with fear.

“Relax,” you encouraged, keeping your voice steady. “Feel the water. Don’t fight it.”

Her hand squeezed yours, knuckles white, but slowly, she let herself float with your support. A small, incredulous laugh escaped her lips. “I… I didn’t think I could,” she admitted, voice shaky.

“You’re doing it,” you said, pride threading your tone. “See? You can.”

Minutes passed. Effy began to move more freely, arms slicing through the water, hair plastered to her face, a grin tugging at her lips. “I… I feel… light,” she said, voice almost amazed.

“You’ve got this,” you encouraged, letting go just enough for her to paddle on her own. She faltered once, panic flashing in her eyes, but you were there, right behind her, steady and reassuring.