Archer was just finishing his last bite of dinner in the dining hall when his phone buzzed. It was a text from Lynn that was only a picture—Sasha’s hand, with a pink teardrop diamond shining from her finger. Behind was a table set for a candlelit dinner and the lake sparkling in the background.

Oh my Goddddd! Congratulations! You did
it! I’m so happy for you two!

Thanks, boo! Do you have time to
join us for a super quick glass of
champagne before the show? We’re
on the deck of our cabin.

Archer checked the time—five forty-five. The finale—only one show this time—was at seven, and even though he was technically supposed to be there at six, if he was a touch late arriving, Eva Stiff went on first, so he had a bit of a time cushion. Sure, if I hurry! I’ll be right there!

He kissed Mateo on the forehead. “I’ve gotta go see Lynn and Sasha real quick—they just got engaged! I’ll be at the theater by six though … ish.”

“Okay, hurry back.” Mateo squeezed his waist. “And congratulate them for me too, please.”

Archer pocketed his phone and hurried out the door into the heavy afternoon heat, settling into a jog toward Lynn’s cabin, sweat beading on his forehead. When he came around the bend by the lake, there was a small, lone figure crumpled in the middle of the path.

Archer’s heart wrenched in two when he recognized the purple floral dress.

“Eileen!” he cried, racing to her side. He fell to his knees and reached for her hand. Her eyes were closed, face stark white. “Eileen,” he said again. “Eileen, are you okay?” He pressed his fingertips to her neck trying to find a pulse, but all he could feel was his own hammering heart.

Then her eyelids fluttered.

“Thank God,” he muttered, scrambling to pull his phone out of his pocket and dial 911.

He did his best to answer their questions and listen to instructions. When the dispatcher put him on hold, he sent a text to Mateo with shaking fingers.

Something’s happened with Eileen. I
found her unconscious. I’m on the phone
with 911.

Where are you? I’ll be right there.

We’re on the path by 101.

“Someone’s coming, Eileen,” Archer murmured to her. “It’s going to be okay. Please, hang in there.” There was no response, but her chest rose in the odd shallow breath.

The dispatcher’s calm voice returned. “An ambulance is on its way. I’m going to give you some more instructions to help Eileen. Are you ready, Archer?”

“Yes. Yes, I think so.” He followed the steps to put Eileen in the recovery position, and he sent a bystander to the front desk to alert them to the situation.

Mateo came running up. A wave of relief flooded Archer’s chest at seeing his face.

“Archer! What happened? Is she okay?” he panted.