The One They Left Behind, Their Forever Sorrow

The drowning rescue drill was underway.

My best friend, Lily Harper, complained that I wasn't taking it seriously. With a laugh, she kicked me into the deep end, then climbed onto my shoulders and shoved me underwater with all her strength.

My calf cramped. Cold water rushed into my lungs, making them burn with pain. I struggled desperately, trying to reach the surface and crying help.

My boyfriend swam right past me. He went straight to Lily, who had barely swallowed a few mouthfuls of water, wrapped his arms around her, and hurried back for the edge of the pool.