Saved

By Annie Dawid

All rise, brothers and sister helping June to her feet, everyone carrying something: Beth’s shoes, June’s clothing, Beth’s coat, June’s shoes, her father’s shoes, George holding three bottles, staring at them in disbelief, Jean carrying the other three. Deirdre supports her sister, whispering, “You sure know how to get everyone’s attention.” June apologizes, saying she hadn’t meant it, and walking back to the beachhouse, feels Beth beside her, and only now, as the two exchange a nod, acknowledging their shared escapade in the sea, does June begin to understand that Beth has rescued her, and what it means to be saved.