The Six O'Clock Swim

Elena could swim a little, but she was afraid of deep water. She wanted to feel more comfortable before a holiday by the sea. She joined a class at the local pool.

The first lesson started at six in the morning. Outside, it was still dark. Elena almost went home when she saw the long pool.

Her teacher, Jack, asked her to begin near the steps. "You don't need to swim to the other end today," he said. "Let's try five metres."

Elena held the side, then pushed away. After a few seconds, she put her feet down. She was standing beside Jack.

"That was five metres," he told her.

She tried again. This time, she was less worried.

After the lesson, the sun was coming up. Elena did not feel ready for the sea yet. But she was already looking forward to her next lesson.