Emily’s thoughts raced as the freezing air coiled around her like a serpent. Her breaths grew shallower, her fingers numbing as she clutched her belly tighter. She had to think, had to fight against the encroaching darkness that threatened to snuff out her will. Somewhere within her, a spark ignited—a stubborn ferocity that would not allow her story to end here.
In the oppressive silence, a plan began to form. Emily recalled the layout of the restaurant’s storage area. It had been designed with efficiency in mind, not safety. The freezer had one flaw: an outdated ventilation system. If she could reach it, perhaps she could find a way to signal for help.
