Alicia's Life in Danger

Alicia was startled when she suddenly felt a strong hold around her. A firm arm, tough like iron, clung to her waist.

She knew it was Chuck's arm, it had a comforting scent of fresh laundry.

In an instant, she was lifted off the ground, her body felt weightless, and Alicia found herself falling. The swift rush of air and startled cries from people around them whistled past her ears. The cries were brief, quickly fading into silence.

Whether it felt like forever or just a moment, Alicia's fall eventually came to a halt. Chuck, still gripping her, landed hard on the ground beneath them. As they landed, she heard him sharply inhale the cold air.

After a second, he gently put her down. They were shrouded in utter darkness, so dark she couldn't even see her own hand. Their flashlight was missing.

Alicia's voice wavered as she asked, "Mr. Hanson, are you okay?"

Chuck answered calmly, "I'm okay. Stay put. There might be more traps."