25

I was running.

I was in danger. I needed to escape.

Behind me, only darkness. In front of me, nothing.

I was running—but from what?

"You can run, but you cannot hide. We will find you! We will find you, we will find you!"

The voice echoed all around me, a sinister threat repeating like a chant. I was terrified. I had nowhere to run. I felt trapped. I couldn’t see. I felt helpless. I needed clarity—

I needed **help**.

I woke up abruptly, gasping for air. I was in the room again.

Sobbing uncontrollably, I realized someone was holding me.

I wasn’t alone.

I didn’t care who it was—someone had come.

Someone had come to my aid.

That was the only thought running through my mind as sobs racked my body. The dream had been too vivid.

**Was I in danger?**

In a breathless whisper, I voiced my fear.

"Th-they... they're coming f-for m-me!"

Pain pierced through my chest.