The rustling from the trees grew louder and closer and—
It stopped, just right behind her...
Serena breath stopped instantly.
The forest went deadly still, like it was holding its breath.
She began to turn—
When strong hands slammed into her back.
The force sent her flying forward. She barely caught a glimpse of dark cloth before she hit the water.
The river swallowed her whole.
The ice cold feel of the rive tore the air from her lungs as she fell deep into the surface.
Before she could orient herself, a hand tangled in her collar and shoved her deeper.
Her head was forced down as water rushed into her mouth.
She thrashed instantly, clawing at the wrist gripping her, but the hold around her was firm and unmoving.
She kicked backward sharply, twisting her body with her sharp
