Day Zero

"Stop," a voice said.

Without looking behind me, I asked, "Why do you care?"

"Look, I may not know you, but I do know I don't want to see your body down there."

I sighed and turned around. The boy helped me up and we locked eyes.

"I'm Jai and I want to help you."

"I'm Rae..." I said nervously.

"Give me 20 days to show you why you shouldn't die," Jai spoke.

I tapped my foot and looked back down at the river.

"Deal or no deal?" He asked.

Reluctantly, I said, "Deal."