14
Louisiana bayou, USA.
Naomi gasped, a sharp intake of breath. Her hands clutched tightly around her paddle, and she froze, even as the gentle current carried her closer to the alligator.
Fabienne paddled gently forward, barely touching the water, angling toward the bank.
“Stay over this side,” she called softly. “They’re used to the tourist air boats feeding them, but they don't usually bother kayakers.”
Jake pulled his kayak up next to Naomi. Her eyes were wide with fear, fixed on the approaching alligator. She was breathing fast.
“It’s OK,” he said. “It’s just curious.”
The alligator swam closer and bumped against Naomi’s kayak. She let out a small cry.
Then she made a break for it, paddling frantically for the closest island, her eyes fixed on the safe haven of the shore.
“S
