THE GUARD
CHAPTER 1
The public beach baked under the relentless summer sun, waves crashing in a steady rhythm against the crowded shore. Bodies packed the sand like sardines, umbrellas dotting the landscape in a sea of color. Valentina wiped sweat from her forehead, her skimpy red bikini clinging to her skin like a second layer. At twenty-two, she had come to this popular tourist spot for a day of relaxation, but the heat was merciless. Sweat dripped between her breasts, tracing paths down her toned stomach despite the multiple layers of sunscreen she had applied.
Her dark hair stuck to her neck, and she fanned herself with her hand, seeking any relief. The only shade nearby was the small lifeguard station changing tent—a simple canvas structure with a zipped door, tucked discreetly beh
