Chapter 1: Trapped in the darkness

The vibrant streets of Florence welcomed Hazel into their historic embrace, each cobblestone whispering tales of centuries gone by. She wandered through the narrow alleys, her eyes wide with wonder at the architectural marvels and the art that adorned every corner. Her rich, chestnut hair danced in the gentle Tuscan breeze, and her Hazel eyes sparkled with a thirst for adventure.

Hazel strolled along the bustling streets of Florence, her sketchbook in hand, capturing the vibrant energy of the city in her artistic strokes. Her surroundings buzzed with the sounds of street vendors hawking their wares, the laughter of children playing in the piazza, and the lively chatter of locals exchanging greetings. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread and the sweet scent of blooming jasmine.

As Hazel sketched a quaint café nestled amidst the cobblestone streets, its warm glow inviting passersby, she decided to explore more into the alleyways and check if she could bump into any hidden art galleries. Though the sun had begun its descent, casting long shadows across the cityscape, and she felt a tinge of weariness, her curiosity, always her faithful companion, urged her forward.

Fear gripped Hazel's heart as she found herself lost in the labyrinthine alleyways of Florence, her surroundings casting long, menacing shadows under the fading twilight. The vibrant city, once a source of artistic inspiration, now seemed to whisper tales of danger and lurking threats.

Hazel had heard countless warnings from fellow students about the perils of navigating unfamiliar streets alone, especially as an international student. But her adventurous spirit had often led her down uncharted paths, seeking hidden gems and captivating encounters.

Tonight, however, her impulse to explore had landed her in a precarious situation. The alleyway was eerily silent, save for the distant hum of the city and the echo of her own footsteps. As she turned a corner, her worst fears materialized.

A group of three men emerged from the shadows, their presence casting a menacing aura. Their eyes, glinting with an unsettling predatory gleam, fell upon Hazel, sending a chill down her spine. The smirk playing on their lips was a chilling reminder of the vulnerability she had stumbled into.

Hazel's mind raced, desperately seeking a way out of this predicament. She had underestimated the dangers lurking beneath the city's charming façade. The warnings she had dismissed now echoed in her ears, a stark reminder of her naivety.

Regret gnawed at her as she thought of Isabella, her Italian friend who had repeatedly cautioned her about the risks of venturing alone. If only she had heeded Isabella's advice, she wouldn't be facing this terrifying situation.

The men closed in, their movements deliberate and menacing. Hazel's heart pounded in her chest, the sound deafening in the oppressive silence. She knew she had to act quickly, but her mind felt trapped, her thoughts scattered like leaves in a storm.

One of the men, taller and broader than the others, approached her and held her chin, his eyes gleaming with a predatory glint. His presence was a stark contrast to the cheerful atmosphere of Florence, casting a shadow of discomfort over Hazel's petite figure.

"Bella," he said, his voice laced with a suggestive tone, "you look lost, do you need help?" Then he looked at the other men with an evil smirk on his face. " I can help you find your way, but you help me warm my bed" they all laughed, exchanging lustful looks and looking up and down her figure. 

Hazel's heart pounded in her chest as the man stepped closer, his intentions clear. She felt a wave of fear wash over her, her fingers trembling as she clutched her sketchbook tightly. The man's gaze was fixed on her lips, his eyes devoid of respect or care. She muttered more to herself than to him, "Please don't hurt me.. Please"

Her voice, barely a whisper, echoed in the alleyway, a desperate plea lost in the encroaching darkness.