shook the raft. The impact propelled me half a foot into the air. I landed with another violent thud, and smacked the back of my head against the raft. A loud crack made a piercing sound. I wasn’t sure if it was my skull, or the raft. I honestly didn’t know which would be worse at that point. I rolled onto my stomach and got on all fours. From there I steadily ascended to my feet, oar in hand. I scanned around the perimeter of the raft frantically, searching for movement. Another loud, powerful bump smashed against the raft from below. I wobbled around and nearly fell again, but managed to stay on my feet. I raised the oar like a primal weapon, ready to strike at the predator that stalked me.

Suddenly, it slivered to the left of the...

Please subscribe to keep reading.