-Elena-
I was slipping away, that much was clear, but his grip was so tight that I could still feel the pain. Why did this have to happen to me? I didn’t want to die—not when I was finally home. I wanted to live! My body made a feeble attempt to twist and fight, but it was too late. I was too weak to do anything. Why not just get it over with? I hoped it would end soon.
“You can’t die yet, Elena,” a distant voice said.
Then I felt it: the grip around my throat loosened. I gasped for air, taking in a deep breath of fresh air. It was the most incredible sensation, but it was followed by violent coughing, as my throat had been constricted for too long. Breathing was still a struggle. As I continued to cough, the voice became clearer.
“Yes, I have her. She’s unconscious for now. I’ll brin
