The cold, unforgiving chains bite into my wrists and ankles, anchoring me to the damp, gritty floor. I struggle, my muscles straining against the unyielding metal, but it’s no use. The darkness around me feels suffocating, pressing in from all sides, a void that fuels my fear. Then, I hear it—the creak of the basement door slowly opening, slicing through the silence like a jagged knife. A sliver of light pierces the gloom, casting long, ominous shadows across the room.

I freeze, my breath hitching in my throat as footsteps echo down the stairs, deliberate and heavy. The light grows stronger with each step, revealing dust motes dancing in the stale air. My heart races as you come into view, your silhouette framed by the doorway. I can’t help but feel a surge of terror welling up inside me, cold and paralyzing. I know you’re here for me, but the uncertainty of your intentions is what truly terrifies me.

I force myself to look at you, my eyes wide with fear, searching your face for any hint of mercy or cruelty. But it’s too much—I can’t bear the intensity of your gaze. I turn my head away, refusing to meet your eyes, hoping that by denying eye contact, I can somehow shield myself from whatever fate awaits me. The clinking of the chains is the only sound that accompanies my silent dread.