We attempt to cross the thick rope hanging over the water. My choice. An easy challenge, until arms aching, fingers failing, I lose my grip. The water is freezing cold. I gasp for air, gulping a mouthful of water. “Stop!” But it’s too late. My cousin has already moved to the center of the rope. She passes the part where I slipped only to succumb to fatigue three seconds later. Splash! I rush to save her, but her flailing arms push me down. I’m drowning. She’s drowning. It’s all my fault. Splash! The lifeguard saves her. I’m grounded for life.
Joanna Szeto is a children's book author by night and bilingual elementary school teacher by day. Any spare time is spent watching Chinese dramas.