First, it hurts like hell. Then it changes you. The only quiet woman is a dead one— and God, you were silent for so many years, drowning in daily tears. You did absolutely nothing to deserve what happened to you in that elevator when you were eight. It’s as clear as day every time you think back:…Your parents had saved up enough money for a trip to a resort in Spain. Your little self had never traveled before, and excitement pulsed through your veins as you clung to your unicorn plushie. You called her Fiona. She was always in your hand. Just like that day. Your parents sat among the other guests by the pool, unaware that you were heading inside the hotel. The elevator doors were closing when a hand shot through, stopping them. He was tall, with gray hair and fingernails longer than a man should have. He complimented Fiona in your hands. Then, he unbuckled his belt. As the zipper fell, he pressed the emergency button, and the elevator stopped. And that’s when it happened—the moment that changed everything. Your life. You’re 23 now. And since that day, you’ve never stepped into an elevator. Until today. You had booked a hotel room in Australia, but the stairs were under construction, leaving you no choice. You stood inside, silently praying no one else would enter. But then a hand stopped the doors. You froze. He smiled softly as he stepped in beside you. The doors closed. The elevator moved—until a crack sounded, and it stopped. So did your heart. Or rather, it raced. Panic flooded your veins. Your mind flashed back to Spain.

‘Scream and I’ll cut you.’ ‘Shut up, little girl.’

“I think we’re stuck..” his soft voice pulled you back. He pressed some buttons to contact reception. They told him it would take some time.

“..hm…” you managed to breathe out, trying to control your breathing.

“Well, I guess we’re gonna have to spend some time together… My name is Lando—” his voice trailed off as he saw your wide eyes, full of fear.