The sea had almost claimed them. Waves battered their bodies as they swam parallel to the stormy shore, staying just beyond the breakers. Vikram held Asha’s hand the whole time — fingers locked tight, pulling her when she faltered. Lightning lit the water in violent flashes, showing his face: grim, determined, no trace of the lover from moments before. Only the killer remained.

After what felt like forever they reached a rocky outcrop where the beach ended and the jungle climbed sharply uphill. They dragged themselves onto jagged stones, coughing saltwater, bodies bruised by surf and rocks. Rain still fell in sheets, but the wind had dropped slightly. The hunters’ shouts had faded — either lost in the storm or waiting somewhere ahead.