Malak

I let out a groan, turning my head this and that way, trying to somehow make the dizziness go away. I look around for something that might help untie the ropes around me.

There's no time for this.

I spot a set of stairs connecting to a second floor, and recognize this might be my only chance. My attempt to stand up and lift the chair with me succeeds- Now just-

A crash sound was heard from inside the shop as broken wooden planks scattered the floor, and I wasted no time kicking the ropes off my feet before running upstairs, since he could be right outside the main door.

I work my way out of the restraints around my arms as I stumble and drag myself upwards. Heartbeat racing, I reach a bedroom, and my eyes spot the window. perfect.

Arms free now, the rope falls onto the stairs behind me, and I march forward, already trying to think of how I should jump out when I see a shadow in my peripheral vision. The bed that's sitting in the middle of the room has a boy tucked in it. Looks younger than me, short brown hair sticking to his forehead, his pale skin drenched in sweat. Furrowed eyebrows and squinting closed eyes, taking in slow shallow breaths...

It could be a simple cold.

I force myself away, and continue towards the window.

It could be a simple cold.

I open the window as far as it can get.

It could be-

I stop in my tracks, feeling a sharp edge against my back, and I fail to take at least a glimpse at who it could be. I take a deep breath and look ahead, lifting my arms in the air in defeat.