39. Chase by Chance

Summary

• The chapter is set in August of 1969 when Kya goes to Cypress Cove in search of rare mushrooms. She hadn't interacted with Tate, who had left her a compass, for over a month.
• While at the cove, Kya is surprised by Chase, who claims he was fishing nearby and saw her pass. She attempts to leave, but he forcefully stops her.
• Chase apologizes for their past and the fact they could not get married. Kya does not accept his apology and confronts him about his engagement to someone else.
• Chase tries to persuade Kya to rekindle their past relationship, which she rejects. He forcibly kisses her and knocks her to the ground after she attempts to break free.
• Chase violently assaults Kya, hitting her and sexually assaulting her. She tries to fight back but he maintains his grip.
• Eventually Kya is able to gather her strength and fights back, hitting him and kicking him repeatedly. She then makes her escape in her boat.
• After starting her boat and getting away, Kya notices two men in another fishing rig nearby who were watching the entire ordeal.