⚠️ Content Warning: This chapter contains scenes involving near-drowning, physical distress, and mentions of blood. Reader discretion is advised.
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The next thing that went wrong happened during the hydrotherapy.
It was supposed to be peaceful. Warm oxygenated water. Soft lights. A weightless float cocooned in a pod like some futuristic hug from a cloud.
The hydrotherapy pool was magnificent – a vast expanse of warm, mineral-infused water, dotted with various jet stations and underwater loungers. Soft, shifting blue lights pulsed beneath the surface, giving the impression of swimming in a tranquil, ethereal lake.
The therapist gave a gentle overview, mentioned it was pre-set to "relaxation mode"—low jets, slow pressure—and promised I'd float like I was in space.
