“ Do something !” Mary screamed to Robert . When the raft floated close enough to the boat , Robert scooped the small child into his arms and sat her down on one of the seats with a towel wrapped around her emaciated frame . Nancy eyed the child , her body slowly inching away toward the cabin . Her green dress was made of elegant chiffon and lace , was torn and shredded at the hem . Bloodstains soaked through most of her clothing , yet Nancy didn ’ t see any injuries .
“ Please sweetie , tell us what happened to you ?” Mary pleaded .
The girl twitched her head toward Mary and tilted it back and forth like a curious bird . “ I am Cassie .” “ Do you remember anything else ?” Robert asked . She was silent and kept her unblinking eyes forward , then grabbed Mary and Robert ’ s hands while letting out a rasping inhalation . Nancy ’ s skin prickled in disgust .
“ We need to bring her to the police ,” Mary muttered . “ There must ’ ve been some terrible accident out in the bay .”
Robert nodded silently , keeping his eyes on the girl . As the boat sped toward the dock , Nancy watched in horror as Cassie ’ s blue eyes opened to slick black pupils . Backing away , Nancy rubbed her arms and gulped back a shriek .
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