Chapter 4 — Second Chance, New Friction

Claire

I arrived at the Seabreeze Aquatic Center ten minutes early, my stomach twisting with equal parts determination and dread. The faintly salty air mingled with the tang of chlorine as I stepped inside, the low hum of water filters mingling with the rhythmic splashes from the pool. My shoes squeaked against the damp tile floor as I passed into the locker room, where the chatter of a few teammates greeted me.