Chapter 64: Saved by Rusty.

Chapter 64: Saved by Rusty.

Under the water, Gareth twisted his wrists frantically. The rope burned as he held his breath. At this point, he thought his lungs would explode. The water closed over his head and then pushed him up. As he tumbled, he wrenched on the ropes. They had felt loose before, and now he was sure he could get them off. He needed one more minute.

The rope was yanked, and Gareth was pulled toward the bridge. His skin stung, and blood trickled down his arms. He tucked his thumbs into his palms. Gareth spun as he headed toward Tammy.

"You're back," Tammy said when he dangled above the river. "Let's try this again. Where is your laptop?"

Gareth held in a groan of pain when the rope slipped over the knob of his thumbs. He braced himself and then fell.