But just as her fingers brushed the hem of Stefanie's gown, the woman let out a startled gasp. Her heel twisted, and she toppled backward—dragging Venice with her into the pool.
"Ahhh!"
The icy water swallowed them both.
Venice struggled to surface, but Stefanie's foot pressed down on her shoulder, forcing her under.
"Help! Kevin, help me!" Stefanie shrieked, thrashing wildly.
Inside the villa, Kevin had just finished his call when he heard the commotion. He rushed outside, saw the figures flailing in the pool, and without a second's hesitation, tore off his jacket and dove in.
Water filled Venice's nose and mouth, her vision blurring as she broke the surface just long enough to see Kevin lifting Stefanie out of the pool.
He laid her on the ground, shouting her name, pressing on her chest, his face pale with panic. Then, as if driven by instinct, he tilted her chin up—and pressed his lips against hers to breathe for her.
Something inside Venice cracked. Her heart plummeted like a stone sinking to the bottom.
The strength drained from her limbs. She let herself fall, sinking deeper, her body going numb, her mind empty.