help my mom she has been locked in the basement for a month she’s still alive Michael and his team rushed to the house crude drawings grotesque shapes everything looked like part of a human sacrifice ritual was the mother still alive how had the little girl managed to survive while her mother was

imprisoned in the basement the basement door burst open and the journey to uncover the truth began the wind from the fields rushed in slipping through every crack the road leading to the house sank deeper into the dark only a few streaks of headlights

flashing across the town before disappearing into silence on the porch a yellow bulb flickered casting a weak trembling glow the curtain swelled slightly carrying the musty smell of rotting wood and dust Emily sat clinging to her mother’s legs holding tightly to a faded teddy bear her eyes fixed on

the wavering strip of light across the wooden floor her small feet hid beneath the hem of her dress rubbing against each other for warmth on the wall an old clock ticked forward second by second each sound thin as a thread
cutting steadily through the silence Laura stood close to the window two fingers pinching the edge of the curtain she pulled it open just a little and a strip of the porch wall appeared on the peeling paint a fresh smear of red paint curled jaggedly over older symbols a circle crossed out crooked

markings like claw scratches from an animal Laura held her breath her throat was bone dry she dropped the curtain turned back and placed her hand on Emily’s shoulder with a gentle squeeze sit closer to me Laura whispered her voice strained but steady out in the yard heavy footsteps crunched over the

gravel
a coarse mocking laugh bounced against the house walls then came the tapping of a stick against the ground thud thud thud the rhythm was steady like counting and each strike made the ceiling bulb tremble violently Emily shrank back mom why are they here she didn’t dare look at her mother her eyes

glued to the quivering bulb as if blinking once might summon something terrible out of the dark Laura placed her other hand on her daughter’s shoulder warmth passing through the thin fabric she bent down to meet Emily’s eyes they just wanna scare us she said forcing each word not to shake

but you will always be right here with me don’t be afraid sweetheart the tapping shifted probing along the front of the house the window frame rattled with a sharp creek the acrid stench of cigarette smoke seeped in through the gaps clinging to the curtains Laura turned her head toward it watching

the thin gray thread of smoke unravel near the front lock where the metal had worn down from countless hurried slams of the door suddenly a rock tore through the darkness and slammed straight into the window pane
crash shards scattered like a rain of icy blades Emily jolted collapsing to the floor with her hands over her head the flickering light twisted the shadows of mother and daughter against the wall broken and trembling Laura grabbed her daughter’s wrist and yanked her back her foot slipped on a shard

of glass and she caught herself on the sofa to keep from falling forcing a deep breath to choke down the cry rising in her throat why do this you could have walked in the right way she said shoving Emily into the narrow space
between the sofa and the low cabinet pulling a thin blanket over her child from the yard a man’s voice stretched each word deliberately if you scream for help your child will lose her mother forever each syllable struck the air like a nail being hammered in the neighbor’s dog barked once and then

went silent as if the darkness itself had strangled it Emily pulled the blanket up to her chin her breathing jagged pressed against her chest the teddy bear suddenly felt strangely stiff she froze her hand tracing the old seam across its belly the place her mother had once patched

under the kitchen light joking he needs a brand new tummy now whatever was hidden inside seemed to wriggle like a tiny fish in her sleeve slicking her palm with sweat Laura stepped carefully around the living room avoiding the glass she checked the back door latch her fingers brushing the loose

wooden bar don’t say a word she whispered without turning the words spilling from her lips like an old habit kneeling she reached under the cabinet for the phone that had been dead for days she held it in her hand for a moment
then slid it back into its place I’m thirsty Mom Emily whispered her voice breaking Laura looked up and met her daughter’s terrified eyes she nodded signaling her to wait she poured water from the glass pitcher into a chipped porcelain cup and walked slowly back the cup trembled in her hand water

sloshing against the rim when she passed it to Emily her fingers brushed lightly over the back of the girl’s hand as if pressing calm into her skin listen to me Laura said when I tell you to run you go straight upstairs
hide in the closet and don’t come out until you hear my voice do you understand Emily nodded rapidly her hair rustling against the blanket she wanted to ask what about you mom but the question was cut off by the savage laughter echoing from the yard the knocking sound thud thud thud echoed again

this time like it was waiting to pierce through the weakest spot Laura stepped toward the window but didn’t dare pull back the curtain she only pressed her palm against the cold wood on the other side of that thin wall someone was standing there
staring straight at the house where’s your phone mom Emily suddenly asked her voice as small as a secret Laura turned back and looked at her daughter for a long moment surprise flickered in her eyes then quickly gave way to resolve it’s somewhere else when we need it I’ll get it the sound of gravel

scattered outside a shadow swept past the broken pane of glass leaving behind half a frame of deep violet sky and a jagged patch of darkness a hand reached in yanked hard on the curtain then disappeared Laura instinctively stepped back her arm shielding her chest

it’s okay she said quickly as if trying to reassure herself more than anyone else I heard something Emily whispered in the kitchen they both fell silent listening from the kitchen came the faint whistle of wind slipping through the back door the air was still then bang the doorknob shuddered under a

single violent fist just once but enough to send chills crawling over their skin Laura’s eyes darted across the room the spoon in the sink the towel with an old coffee stain hanging on a chair Emily’s shoes neatly lined up under the staircase every object seemed frozen

as if holding its breath with them stay right here sweetheart she told her she stepped toward the front door each footfall making the wooden floor groan when her hand was only a span away from the lock a thunderous blow crashed against the door shaking the whole frame of the house Emily shrank back

her enamel cup clinking against her teeth water spilled out soaking the blanket with a spreading cold patch don’t open it Emily blurted then quickly bit her lip Laura pressed her forehead to the icy door and drew in a long breath from outside a rasping voice dragged out each word seeping through

every crack
we see you she turned back searching for her daughter’s eyes in the flickering light their gazes locked and she gave a slight nod a promise in silence I’m right here Shep Emily whispered the name of her teddy bear as if calling on an ally then hugged it tighter inside the worn fabric something hard

pressed against her chest like a hidden drumbeat the ceiling light flared bright for an instant then went out leaving only a trembling glow Laura backed toward Emily reaching out her arms come here let me hold you Emily nestled into her mother’s embrace Laura’s chest was warm and steady

carrying the faint scent of cheap soap mixed with the familiar smell of wood count with me Laura murmured into her ear one two three each number was like a tiny brick building a fragile wall against the fear pressing in the pounding on the door began again hammering like a sledge the frame groaned

threatening to give way dust rained down from above settling into their hair outside angry voices flared in an argument then suddenly cut off a heartbeat later one final earth shaking blow slammed against the hinge
and the metal latch shrieked with a piercing clang Laura tilted her head and pressed her ear against her daughter’s hair close your eyes she ordered breathe in Emily obeyed her world shrank to nothing but the pounding of her heartbeat in her ears and the unfinished drawing on her desk two figures

standing beneath a yellow roof under a sky that had yet to be colored in one more beat Laura said then her words were swallowed by a terrifying sound the door shook violently the house seemed to lift and crash back down the air grew so tense it was suffocating

in that dreadful stillness only the lonely tick of the clock could be heard then came another blow savage and relentless as if the storm had found the perfect place to destroy the old house groaned amid the fury mother and daughter clung to each other holding their breath waiting the pencil moved

across the small piece of paper Laura wrote quickly the letters slanted and firm you are stronger than you think my love she folded the note and tucked it deep into the tear on the belly of the old teddy bear on the wall the clock hands ticked releasing a dry

tense screech the first blow shook the entire door frame the second came right after followed by the angry ragged breathing of a man so close that Laura could hear the rough sound scratching in his throat she gripped her daughter’s hand tightly Emily jolted clutching the teddy bear against her chest

her eyes wide with terror the door hinges groaned then burst open freezing air and the smell of MUD rushed into the room heavy boots tore into the floorboards footsteps thundered overlapping with rough triumphant voices Laura don’t think you can escape

a dark figure lunged forward first with two more crashing in behind him Laura didn’t hesitate she grabbed Emily’s hand and pulled her across the living room knocking a chair aside heading straight for the stairs the wooden steps creaked under their weight the narrow hallway was cloaked in shadow lit

only by a flickering yellow bulb below a distorted voice growled after them Laura you’ve got nowhere left to run the bedroom door swung open Laura shoved Emily inside their eyes locked for only a fleeting second lock the door Laura ordered her voice low and sharp hide in the closet

if it gets dangerous you call 9 1 1 I’ll come back she cupped her daughter’s face her thumb wiping away the tear sliding down her cheek remember what I said I’m scared Emily’s voice cracked don’t go mom I’m not leaving you Laura bent down and wrapped her arms tightly around her as if she could hold

on to the scent of her child’s hair forever I love you now do as I say the footsteps had already reached the top of the stairs the bedroom door slammed shut the lock clicked firmly into place Emily froze for a moment then darted toward the closet when the door opened the smell of old wood and dried

lavender spilled out
she squeezed into the cramped space and pulled the teddy bear over her face through the narrow gap in the doors she saw her mother’s back straight and unyielding as she faced the hallway the sounds of struggle exploded thuds grappling the crash of someone slammed against the wall vibrations

shuddering through the room hold her down a voice roared slicing through the air like a knife across wood Emily curled into herself her nails digging so hard into the teddy bear that her fingers turned white in the closet’s darkness
Emily’s breathing was the only sound she could control a thin sliver of light slipped through the crack sweeping across the floor each time a shadow passed by Laura a voice rasped thick and smoky you know what will happen if you scream your child will never see her mother again that sentence struck

Emily like a stone she squeezed her eyes shut her hand still clutching the teddy bear something hard inside the fabric pressed against her fingertips like a mysterious reminder she couldn’t name outside the sounds of struggle shifted into heavy dragging noises then silence

Emily’s hearing stretched tight like a string on a violin the whistle of wind seeping through the window the groan of decaying wood and then another sound broke through the creak of something heavy being opened the air changed a damp icy draft slid through the crack of the cellar door and brushed

against her skin Emily heard her mother let out a strangled sound caught in her throat mom she wanted to scream but her lips had gone stiff a heartbeat later the final sound came the cellar door slamming shut heavy as if it meant to bury everything beneath it

the house suddenly felt hollow Emily opened her eyes in the darkness her chest tightening in her mind her mother’s promise still echoed I will come back that sentence became the only rope for her to hold on to she pressed her forehead against her knees and drew in a deep breath she couldn’t cry

crying would make noise outside footsteps moved farther and farther away the bedroom door never opened the staircase stayed silent only the stubborn ticking of the clock kept dragging time forward Emily slowly pushed open the closet door amid the clutter of tangled hangers she saw that her mother

had already stashed something
inside a few packs of salted crackers half a candy bar and a couple of bottles of water it was clear her mother had thought about a dangerous situation like this and had prepared for it tragically that moment had actually arrived sitting inside the closet Emily pressed her cheek against the teddy

bear the rough stitching across its belly scraped her fingers that same hardness inside brushed against her again a secret she still couldn’t name she slid deeper into the darkness letting the sound of her heartbeat
merge with the ticking of the clock if you ever feel in danger you have to call 9 1 1 her mother’s warning replayed in her head word by word Emily shut her eyes counting silently waiting every time the fear swelled inside her she whispered the words written on the slip of paper you are so much

stronger than you think my love outside rain began to fall tapping lightly against the window pane the house stayed still the cellar door remained sealed and inside the cramped closet a trembling child clung to her small secret holding her breath waiting

the closet door was open just a crack a thin line of light cut across the carpet trembling with every faint breeze inside the darkness Emily sat curled up clutching a teddy bear with one ear folded down the smell of damp wood and old fabric mixed together the heavy scent pressing into her chest she

could hear her own heartbeat slow and lonely out there the bedroom was utterly still farther away was the staircase where every so often a single creak echoed as if someone had started to step down and then stopped she held her breath listening
no one called her name no one answered back her small stomach growled protesting from hunger she broke off a tiny piece of bread placed it on her tongue let it dissolve before swallowing as for water she only dared to wet her lips before twisting the cap tight again her hands were slick with sweat

she lifted the tip of a pencil to the side of the closet scratching another short thin line beside the old ones she did not know how to count the days she only marked that she had survived through one more stretch of silence
night fell without warning dragging in strange noises some nights it was a heavy hollow pounding on the wall other nights it was laughter cut short as if strangled mid breath but the worst were the nights of absolute silence a silence so deep she could hear the blood rushing in her ears she pulled

the teddy bear over her face and whispered through its worn fabric if you’re scared hold my hand her mother had written a few notes and tucked them in with the bread the paper had grown soft from the dampness
the blue ink blurred Emily unfolded one you are far stronger than you think my love she folded it back and pressed it to her chest the second note read listen to the voice inside you it knows the way she shut her eyes trying hard to listen but all that came were the knocks on the walls and the echo

of the threat if you cry for help your child will lose her mother forever once she had dared to open the closet door a little wider just enough to see the band of light stretch across the floor her barefoot touched the chill of the carpet and instantly recoiled no one was there only dust floating in

the air
and her mother’s sock hanging on the chair from some forgotten afternoon Emily shut the door again and leaned her forehead against the cool wooden surface on a day she could no longer keep track of a heavy dragging sound rose from downstairs Emily held her breath her tongue brushing unconsciously

against the cracks on her dry lips she pressed her ear close to the crack of the door waiting for a cough a whisper any sound from her mother but there was nothing she started tapping her knees lightly counting from one to 10 before starting over that self made game kept her from bursting into tears

when hunger struck Emily crumbled a cookie and ate it bit by bit to hold on memories of breakfast with eggs and toast came rushing back her mother used to laugh drawing little hearts on the plate with syrup Emily blinked quickly forcing the image away she placed her teddy bear on its back its shiny

black plastic eyes staring straight at her do you think they’ve left yet she whispered the bear stayed silent she broke off a tiny piece of cookie touched it to its nose as if feeding it then put it into her own mouth
another day passed the wind carried the smell of cigarette smoke mixed with something sickeningly sweet Emily knew that smell it had once clung to her mother’s clothes after every trip downstairs she pulled the blanket over her head in that cramped cocoon she repeated her mother’s words like a spell

you are stronger than you think sweetheart listen to the voice inside you that voice told her to wait to chew slowly to wake up when the daylight came when the last cookie had crumbled to dust and the water bottle stood completely dry Emily laughed it was a hollow

brittle sound short and sharp the first laugh in many long days she peered through the crack of the door the room was unchanged her mother’s sock had fallen to the floor the family photo frame on the wall hung slightly askew no one was there no trace of life remained Emily clutched the teddy bear

this time she didn’t whisper if you’re scared hold my hand the small hand tightened a strange sensation ran through her body making her shiver yet keeping her alert the game of counting and waiting had reached its limit
she closed her eyes and then opened them again just to make sure she wasn’t dreaming everything was still there but something inside her had shifted as if a picture frame on the wall had just been straightened she tucked her mother’s scraps of paper into her pocket placed a hand over her chest and

waited for her heartbeat to slow down outside the rain had stopped the strip of light on the carpet shrank into a tiny dot and then vanished she exhaled the food was gone the water had run out the house was silent
holding its breath Emily set her hand on the cupboard handle but didn’t open it she pulled her hand back hugged the bear one more time she sat still waiting for one beat then two to make sure of what she was about to do in the darkness a decision was forming like a seed about to break through the

soil how would poor little Emily survive when she had almost no food left can you guess what choice she was about to make the wind howled through the corrugated roof like a scream clawing at the thick silence inside the house
every sound was swallowed whole except for the steady ticking of the clock pressed into the darkness of the closet nine year old Emily clutched her worn out teddy bear she held her breath and listened no footsteps no raspy laughter only the wailing wind and a suffocating silence her hand slid down

to the bear’s belly brushing against an uneven seam she froze then carefully traced it beneath the frayed stuffing her fingers touched something strange cold and flat she flinched then driven by curiosity pulled it out
an old phone Emily sat frozen her mother had hidden it there biting her lip she pressed and held the power button a faint green light flickered a red battery icon blinking weakly she hurried to shut it off darkness rushing back in along with bits of cotton a folded note slipped out from the tear in

the sliver of light seeping through the closet her mother’s familiar handwriting appeared you are much stronger than you think my love Emily gripped the paper tight breathing in the familiar fabric scent her mother’s words from that day echoed sharply in her head if you ever feel in danger

you must call 9 1 1 I will come back but the food was nearly gone the water almost empty the greatest fear was not hunger but the sense that this house had swallowed every trace of life even her mother’s breath the screen lit up again a faint glow revealing the dampness on her cheek with trembling

hands she lowered the volume and muted the keyboard every movement was slow tense a thought flashed through her mind what if they find out what if I call too late she swallowed hard pressing her mother’s note against the phone
as if it were a talisman in the thick darkness Emily tried to reassure herself maybe they’re gone but another voice whispered back or maybe they’re standing right outside the door she lifted the phone the numbers appeared sharp and bright sweat soaked her fingertips she wiped them quickly on her

shirt and tried again pressing down gently the first number appeared she almost stopped breathing she pressed the second a faint vibration pulsed into her palm she didn’t stop for a moment she paused her eyes fixed on the slit across the teddy bear’s belly

she pressed her lips to its ear and whispered mom I’m so scared but I can’t stay silent anymore I’ll be strong just like you told me a tiny spark of determination flickered to life she took one last deep breath held it and touched the screen then pressed down 9 1 1 the screen shifted color casting a

pale blue glow across her face Emily quickly shoved the phone under her shirt to smother any sign of light in that stillness she could hear the blood rushing in her ears the house remained silent the wind kept hissing she closed her eyes and gripped her mother’s note tightly

somewhere in the distance a fragile tone rang out so faint it could only be heard by someone holding their breath Emily didn’t open her eyes her hand clenched around the phone her lips forming a word that barely existed in sound mom the house stayed frozen like the surface of an icebound lake but

within that silence a delicate yet blazing thread had been cast out stretching from her small hands to the world beyond the faint static buzzed from the radio on the duty desk then faded out the night shift room remained unchanged
filled with the smell of coffee and the harsh glow of fluorescent lights casting a pale green streak across the metal table Michael adjusted the radio strap to his shoulder his eyes sliding toward the glass window watching the parking lot where cold air was spilling out in thick white plumes

suddenly the static crackled again clearer this time broken and fragile please help my mom the voice of a little girl barely louder than a whisper Michael jerked upright dispatch repeat 911 signal routed to patrol channel
child’s voice possible immediate threat we’re still holding the line the dispatcher spoke quickly the clatter of keyboard keys tapping out an urgent rhythm in the background I’m here I’m listening Michael said lowering his tone as if he were speaking to someone right beside him what’s your name

sweetheart M Emily the girl’s breath was thin and hurried spilling into the microphone like shattered fragments of a cramped space Emily where are you right now tell me the address slowly in the darkness the old phone was pressed against her cheek Emily tugged her shirt down to cover the faint glow

of the screen
No. 13 Cedar street town of Willow each word slipped out as if pulled from her throat by a thread fragile and on the verge of snapping received the dispatcher replied her voice briefly switching to another line location confirmed code 1 0 3 3 all nearby units standby Michael shot to his feet grabbed

his keys and bolted the duty room door flew open a blast of icy air cutting through like a knife he sprinted across the lot shoes splashing through puddles then jumped into his car the engine roared the dashboard lit up he flipped the switch
sirens wailed red and blue lights fanned across the concrete ceiling before spilling into the night Emily his voice was deep and steady as rhythmic as the wipers can you tell me is anyone else in the house Emily swallowed hard I I don’t see anyone but if they hear me my mom will die the last words

broke apart almost like a hiss forced through clenched teeth where is your mom Michael asked eyes locked on the slick black road ahead rain lashed the windshield like thousands of frantic nails scratching at once the wipers carved a strip of clarity
then darkness rushed back in in the basement Emily’s voice grew fainter she glanced toward the crack of the door the faint glow in the hallway blurred in her tears beyond it the house seemed to be holding its breath only the wind shrieking across the tin roof stabbing at her ears Emily hugged her

stuffed bear tighter her fingers clinging to the stitching on its belly as if it were a promise Michael flicked the headlights to high beam then lowered them to avoid glare all right listen to me Emily you don’t need to speak loud just keep the phone close to you if you hear anything unusual

tap the phone twice I’ll understand on the other end came a soft breath okay dispatch confirm address 13 seater request unit 41B and medical to stage at the corner maintain radio silence on approach Michael said firmly he eased into the curve tires skimming over wet leaves and leaving a swirl behind

houses shrank along the roadside under the rain their windows black and shut like sleeping eyes unit 23 copy that 41B will arrive in three minutes the radio crackled back Emily where are you inside the house upstairs in the closet does the closet have a lock

there’s a small latch latch it don’t come out listen to me you must not come out until you hear me call your full name Emily nodded even though she knew he couldn’t see the nod made her hair brush against her damp chilled cheek when she focused on her breathing the sound of the rain grew sharper

above her the hallway light flickered then went out completely the darkness thickened like ink spreading across paper in the car Michael drove into a stretch of road lined with small woods on both sides branches whipping in the wind and casting crooked shadows he gripped the steering wheel lightly

leaning into the seat forcing his shoulders to loosen experience told him that a rainy night amplified everything both hope and danger he refused to let his mind wander to the times he had arrived too late there was only the road in that fragile voice Emily do you hear anyone speaking a pause then

two faint taps against the phone tap tap good that’s exactly right are they far away or close Emily held her breath listening from far below came a faint metallic sound like a spoon brushing the edge of a bowl maybe it was just the wind or maybe I
I’m not sure I think in the kitchen we’re going to be very careful try to tell me where’s the basement door in your house Michael asked his right hand brushing the switch for the emergency lights once more to make sure they still worked ahead of him the sign for Cedar Road gleamed wet with rain

flashing in his headlights in the middle of the living room there’s a big rug under the rug there’s a wooden door Emily closed her eyes recalling each step her mother had taken pulling her through the night the long hallway and that single moment
when her mother’s hand slipped out of hers her throat went dry good job Michael said his voice softening as if he were draping a warm blanket over trembling shoulders you’re doing very well the dispatcher’s radio cut in Unit 2 3 the scene may involve an organized gang approach in silence medical

team reports they are standing by copy Michael replied he switched off the Siren before turning onto Cedar Street leaving only the red and blue lights spinning slowly their glow swept across the rows of trees
slicing into shifting patches of color scattered on the wet pavement on the second floor Emily counted her breaths one two a faint crackle like the scratch of a match from far away made her flinch she pressed her mouth to the phone uncle don’t let them know if they find out my mom will die her voice

broke apart then shrank back into a desperate whisper Michael glanced in the rearview mirror another police cruiser was close behind its lights flashing across his rain streaked windshield I promise I’m almost there Emily when you hear me call you must answer right away

if it’s not my voice don’t open the door no matter what anyone says yes he turned off the headlights when the outline of a low wooden house appeared beyond the trees rain slanted down the yard shimmering with a thin layer of reflective water a large section of the left window was shattered jagged

edges jutting black against the night Michael pulled out his radio leaned down and spoke quietly approach from the right no flashlights 41 Bravo covers the back maintain radio silence when I call the name Emily
go in immediately Roger Michael placed his hand on the car door latch but lingered for a beat he lifted the radio closer to his mouth and spoke to the little girl who could not see him Emily I see your house now I’m about to call your name are you ready inside the closet Emily clutched her teddy

bear tight I’m ready outside the wind lashed hard trees bending under its force as the rain grew heavier Michael stepped out of the car pulled his hood up and his boots splashed into a puddle the red and blue lights from two cruisers swept across the yard washed over the rain blurred wall with its

red markings
then slid into the darkness beyond he signaled with his hand two figures moved silently into position his hand rested on the grip of his flashlight not his gun tonight the first thing he would bring into the house was light Emily he called his voice no louder than the wind yet still clear it’s Uncle

Michael in the closet Emily’s eyes flew open the shirt covering the screen shifted slightly a faint blue glow lighting her chin her fingers brushed the door latch as she listened to her heart pounding fast like the pelting rain on the other side footsteps had gone still

the whole house seemed to hold its breath Michael tilted his head straining to hear somewhere deeper inside the sound of metal echoed again he drew in a long breath and gave the signal the red and blue lights kept sweeping across the empty road their glow spilled across the threshold like a promise

slowly opening the Siren cut off in front of the porch tires screeched across the wet gravel the wind carried the scent of rotting leaves and damp wood the smell of an old house red and blue lights swept along the walls flashing across dark dried streaks of blood

this is the police the voice rang out firm without the slightest tremor the butt of a gun slammed against the door the hinges gave way with a crack splintering into pieces wood fragments flew fine dust rising and mixing with beams of flashlight cutting through the dark inside it was black as a well

broken glass crunched under their boots Michael stepped in sweeping his light left then right the living room was empty streaks of dark red stained the walls an armchair shoved askew from the rug no voices only the heavy ticking of a wall clock
front’s clear a teammate reported quietly Michael signaled with two fingers splitting their directions one officer moved toward the kitchen another pressed close to the back door Michael took half a step back tilting his head to listen from one corner of the house came the sound of breathing tight

restrained and very close his flashlight swept over a narrow wardrobe pressed against the wall from the crack of its door a loose white thread dangled from a teddy bear like a silent cry for help Michael lowered himself slipped off his glove and softened his voice

I’m Michael I’m going to open this door okay his hand pressed the knob turning it slowly to avoid a sudden noise the door creaked open a pair of dark eyes glimmered in the shadows then recoiled at the light a little girl clutched a worn teddy bear to her chest her knees drawn tightly up her face was

streaked with dirt her lips turned purple from the cold you’re Emily aren’t you Michael whispered he knelt to meet her gaze careful not to shine the light in her face you’re safe now Emily’s chin quivered
she didn’t answer right away just stared at him in silence her eyes hidden behind the teddy bear’s ears at the word safe her breath hitched then broke into muffled sobs tears spilled down her face as she nodded weakly is there anyone else in the house Emily Michael asked his voice steady never

pushing the little girl swallowed hard struggling to speak the first sound was only a thin breath then a strained sentence forced its way through her parched throat my mom is in the basement the flashlight swept across the room the large ash gray rug lay out of place from the chair

one corner curled upward exposing a strip of wood in a different shade Michael signaled two officers immediately stepped forward and grabbed the corners of the rug wait Michael turned back to Emily he slipped off his coat and gently draped it over her shoulders breathe slowly and look at me nothing

scary is going to happen I promise Emily clutched the edge of the coat the damp wool carrying the scent of rain made her feel sheltered she hugged her teddy bear tight her small fingers digging into the frayed stitching on its belly lift the rug Michael ordered firmly

the rug was pulled aside a wooden trapdoor appeared its iron handle worn smooth the paint peeling like cracked skin a damp moldy odor rose from below carrying a biting chill a few strands of black hair clung to the dusty edge is it locked one of his partners asked bolted from the inside Michael

shined the light down spotting a crude latch he wedged the tip of his folding knife under it and pried gently the latch snapped open with a dry click before opening the door he turned back Emily listen to me he pointed at his own ear
then touched her hand softly cover your ears OK there might be a bit of noise I’m right here Emily did as told but her eyes never left the handle her lips trembled as if afraid she wouldn’t have time to say the most important thing sir my mom is afraid of the dark Michael nodded with resolve I know

he tapped the small light clip to his vest and adjusted it to a warmer glow we’ll show her the light first the trap door creaked open the hinges screeched with a piercing metallic cry like steel grinding against steel
a wave of cold air surged upward mixed with the stench of stagnant earth a rickety staircase LED straight down into the ground is anyone down there speak up Michael lowered his voice just enough to carry this is the police no answer only the steady drip of water somewhere in the dark echoing like a

metronome then faintly from far below a weak moan rose up ah er Emily flinched her hands slipped from her ears her body leaning forward to listen the terror in her eyes tightened giving way to a spark of hope
Mom Michael raised his hand gently stopping the little girl wait let me go down first he turned to his teammate call an ambulance one of you stay with the girl a silver emergency blanket was pulled out of a backpack his teammate wrapped it around Emily both to keep her warm and to create a

protective circle he spoke to her in a calm voice you’re going to hear some noises just close your eyes and imagine you’re sitting in the car with your mom Michael placed his foot on the first step he tapped the edge of each step with the handle of his flashlight

to test its strength the wood groaned under the weight but held he shone the light downward the narrow hallway stretched into a deep void swallowing the beam into damp mold stained walls from upstairs Emily watched her small shoulder leaned against the side of the cabinet her toes curled under the

silver blanket in her mind her mother’s words from weeks ago echoed clearly if you’re in danger call 9 1 1 she squeezed her teddy bear tight the frayed stitches pressing into her palm like a secret that had just brought light into this
place Michael stopped at the third step and lifted his gaze meeting the girl’s eyes you did very well only four words but his voice carried trust Emily drew in a deep breath and nodded another sharp click sounded his teammate had locked the front door and reported outside is secure the radio

crackled ambulance will arrive in two minutes Michael stepped down two more steps cold air rushed against his face the damp smell stronger an old rope draped across the railing crumbled into dust when he brushed against it
below the darkness shifted with the movement of his flashlight beam he paused at the line where light ended and shadows took over Laura he called saying the very name Emily had been longing to hear after a moment of silence a strained voice answered I am here the sound was weak hoarse but strong

enough to form a bridge from the bottom of the cellar to the surface above Emily shot up her eyes wide Michael raised his hand signaling her to stay calm I heard her keep it quiet for a moment he spoke softly into the radio
female victim conscious struggling to breathe possible restraints prepare stretcher and oxygen on the floor one teammate pulled a chair farther back to clear a path another threw open the window letting fresh air rush in every action was carried out in silence coordinated as smoothly as a perfectly

tuned machine Emily stepped back her back pressed against the wall ever since the words I am here echoed it felt as though her small body had been freed from an invisible weight that had clung to her for weeks
her legs turned weak yet her heart found something to hold on to wrapped inside the silver blanket she whispered to her teddy bear mom is talking mom is really talking Michael placed his foot on the next step below him the darkness slowly revealed a flat patch of earth and floor he turned back and

raised his voice just enough for Emily to hear you’re still safe look at me he lifted his thumb in a simple gesture that small signal carried through the air becoming a new anchor that steadied her he bent down pressing his ear close to the draft
rising from the basement this time the groaning was clearer mixed with the rustle of fabric it might have been the sound of someone trying to turn over he switched off the harsh beam of his flashlight replacing it with a softer glow so he wouldn’t blind whoever was down there get ready his voice was

quiet but the firmness in his tone carried enough weight for everyone in the house to hear then from the bottom of the basement a faint cry rose again longer this time like a fragile thread stretching toward the step where Michael stood
help me Michael leaned forward one hand gripping the flashlight the other reaching out as though to guide the way on the floor above Emily leaned too clutching her arms tightly around herself her eyes brimmed with tears yet they shone with light the basement hinges creaked once more as if in

response no one spoke another word everyone held their breath waiting for the moment when light was about to flood the darkness the wooden door scraped harshly against the frame the hinges groaning with a dry creak a musty draft rose from the cellar carrying the stale smell of years without sunlight

the beam of a flashlight tore through the fine dust hanging in the air a cold streak of light cutting the darkness easy Michael ordered softly raising his hand to signal the team check every step rubber soles pressed carefully against the stairs stirring up layers of dust the sound was brittle

scraping through the silence the cellar walls were blotched with yellow stains at the bottom a frail figure lay on her side her hands tied tightly behind her back with a worn rope someone’s here a police officer whispered
the flashlights converged at once Laura’s pale face appeared her lips cracked and dry she blinked against the sudden light her throat releasing a rasping sound rough like sand grinding on stone Emily where is she Michael moved quickly dropping to one knee on the damp concrete floor he cut the rope

and slipped an arm around her shoulders to lift her up breathe deep we’re here now Laura’s hand clutched at his sleeve her nails trembling her head turned instinctively toward the dark space at the top of the stairs Emily I’m here mom the voice was thin as a thread

but unbroken drifting down from the steps above Emily was clutching her teddy bear her eyes red and swollen her words breaking with sniffles hold on Michael looked up his voice softening let me bring your mom up first two other officers swept their lights across the cellar a rusty folding table a

wooden board riddled with nail holes and several old rolls of duct tape were piled carelessly in a corner against the wall lay a battered hardcover notebook its pages filled with symbols drawn in black ink next to it were loose sheets of paper
each bearing a short cold threat in straight rigid handwriting secure everything Michael ordered his eyes never leaving Laura photograph the scene and seal it all in evidence bags he helped Laura to her feet she staggered a streak of grey dust smeared across her cheek the wind rushed through the

cracks above the cellar door carrying a hollow empty sound I’m here Emily whispered she was crouched on a step her knees wrapped tightly around her teddy bear I’m not going anywhere the moment Laura lifted her foot onto the first stair
Emily sprang up as if by instinct she ran forward and threw her arms around her mother clinging so tightly it seemed if she let go her mother would vanish into the darkness the teddy bear slipped from her grasp rolled once and stopped at Michael’s feet easy now he steadied them both guiding them up

step by step his breath calm and even above his team had already cleared the way sweeping shards of glass aside from the window frame the damp smell of wood gave way to the night’s cold air and the sharp scent of nylon from evidence bags in the living room Laura sank onto the edge of a worn armchair

Emily still pressed against her chest a few seconds of silence passed broken only by the scratch of a pen as an officer took notes the crackle of a radio and Emily’s muffled sniffling are you hurt anywhere Michael asked we can bring in a medic no Laura shook her head faintly her voice still hoarse

just let me see her for a moment she gently pulled Emily back to look at her face are you alright Emily nodded I was scared but I did what you told me I hid in the closet I I called 911 her voice was so soft
as if she feared breaking the fragile moment of reunion Laura closed her eyes her shoulders easing as though a weight had finally lifted you did so well sweetheart a noise erupted from the yard the front door swung open two officers escorted a man in a dark jacket his hands cuffed behind his back

sweat plastered his hair to his forehead his eyes flicked quickly around the room before stopping on the rug torn up in the middle of the floor the corner of his mouth curled into a faint mocking smile head up the officer on the right ordered keep moving check the wooden box

one of Michael’s teammates called out they dragged a heavy chest from under the table inside lay a rusted butcher knife the damp metallic odor seeping into the air a numbered evidence tag was clipped to the handle Michael only gave it a glance before turning back to the mother and child sitting

across from them he lowered his voice you and your daughter will be taken to a safe place right now we’ll remain here until the scene is fully secured Laura nodded her hands clasped tightly together the panic had ebbed leaving only exhaustion
and a warmth spreading in her chest Emily pressed her ear against her mother listening to the heartbeat that was steady once again she breathed in deeply as if to reassure herself that the scent of her mother’s hair was still exactly as she had always known it a judicial officer leaned close to

Michael’s ear we have enough the coded Ledger the threat papers the schedules the list of aliases in the basement there are nail marks from ropes being fastened behind the house we found signs of a temporary gathering spot all the key members have been arrested

bring them all back to headquarters Michael replied he looked at the man in handcuffs leaning against the wall the smile gone from his face his eyes flat like glass that reflected nothing contact the on duty lawyer finish the initial paperwork tonight the man opened his mouth you don’t understand

she already signed she belongs to enough Michael cut him off the rest will be for the court to decide he let out a contemptuous laugh but his voice faded as two officers dragged him away the rattle of handcuffs and the scrape of shoes on the floor seemed to stretch endlessly into the night

the room suddenly fell silent as if no one were breathing Emily lifted her face toward Michael are you leaving sir I’ll stay until you and your mother get in the vehicle he answered then I’ll go right after outside the ambulance had its white lights flashing but no Siren a female paramedic carrying

a kit walked in her smile gentle her eyes warm I’m Kayla let me take a look at your wrist Laura held out her arm revealing deep red marks carved into her skin Kayla slipped off her gloves carefully disinfected the wounds then wrapped them in gauze
it might sting a little when I touch it but it will be fine soon Emily watched quietly then placed her teddy bear on her mother’s lap I kept him in the closet he’s not as afraid of the dark as I am Laura gave the faintest smile just enough for her daughter to hear from now on there won’t be any more

dark closets Michael rose and spoke to Kayla and his team move them to safe house No.
3 I’ll travel with the group he turned to Laura tomorrow our people will come to help you give your statement you don’t have to tell everything tonight rest first Laura looked down at her carefully bandaged arm then at her daughter I’ll speak not for them for her Michael nodded I understand a young

officer entered handing him a sheet of paper preliminary report the reason they targeted her according to initial testimony from several of them was because she refused to join and even sheltered others they wanted to make an example out of her Michael gripped the paper lightly careful not to crease

it
the rest will be handled by the law one detail at a time Kayla closed the medical kit signaling that everything was done let’s go Laura stood up swaying slightly Emily small as she was held her mother steady together mother and daughter stepped out onto the porch the night before them no longer

carried the sick laughter or the pounding of sticks against the walls only the whisper of wind through the leaves and the sound of ambulance wheels rolling over gravel in the yard the man in a dark shirt was escorted across the flashing red and blue lights from the patrol car

swept across his face the handcuffs glinting with a cold shine Michael watched in silence an officer snapped the final photo the shutter clicking with a dry sound let’s go Michael said his voice calm as if he were clearing the table after dinner but every step he took was heavy and steady leaving no

duty unfinished the ambulance doors closed through the small window Emily saw the porch and the scattered shards of glass drifting farther behind she pressed her forehead against her mother’s shoulder whispering just for the two of them to hear I’m here now mom yes Laura answered

the warmth from her chest flowing into her daughter’s temple we’re here now on the front steps the evidence bag had been sealed inside the clear nylon lay a hardbound notebook covered with strange symbols a sudden gust of wind passed through making the nylon rustle faintly like a breath at the trial

the entire leader and core members of the cult were forced to face their crimes the irrefutable evidence taken from the cold basement the rusty knife the notebook filled with sinister symbols and the threatening scraps of paper exposed their vicious plan

claiming that Laura was an outsider who obstructed their blind faith they had kidnapped her and intended to punish her standing in the dock their attitudes could not have been more different some trembled their terrified eyes darting around while the leader kept his expression blank and unfeeling

his eyes burning with fanatical madness showing not a trace of remorse when the stern judgment of the law was pronounced the leader’s stony face finally cracked he was sentenced to life in prison while his chief accomplices received 10 to 20 years behind bars

the rest collapsed their illusions of a mission shattered against the bare truth of prison bars the cold steel handcuffs closed tightly around each criminal’s wrists sealing off a dark chapter justice had been carried out proving that no dark force could ever stand above the law and that every act

threatening human life must be paid for dearly the white curtain cast long still ripples across the wooden floor through the open window the warm scent of baked butter drifted through the air Emily leaned her elbow on the table
adding a stroke of golden sunlight to her drawing of a house with a front porch and a little wind chime beside her glass of milk rested a brand new teddy bear its round black eyes tilted as if keeping careful watch from the kitchen came the steady sound of a spatula flipping pancakes on the pan

Laura leaned over the heat from the freshly turned pancake brushing against her cheek she glanced at her daughter watching Emily carefully trace each line her head tilted her lips pressed tight the child’s thin shoulders no longer seemed to shrink inward

Laura set the plate on the counter calmly washed her hands under the running water her breathing slowly evening out three knocks echoed sharp and firm Emily’s head shot up the crayon pausing in midair I’ll get it Laura said quickly her voice reassuring she wiped her hands in a hurry and stepped out

a man in a dark shirt stood on the porch wearing a gentle smile Michael dipped his head slightly hello to both of you I brought some sweets and a new friend Uncle Michael is here Laura said opening the door wider a breeze swept in carrying warm sunlight Emily rose slowly

not rushing forward like other children might but her eyes lit up with a hint of joy Michael held out a paper bag strawberry waffles and this he revealed another teddy bear its cream colored fur soft and smooth a small bow tied neatly around its neck Emily set her crayon down and stepped closer

what’s this one’s name you get to name your friend my job was just to bring them to the right home Michael replied with a smile the little girl touched the bow gently straightened it then hugged the bear tightly to her chest a streak of yellow crayon from her hand

accidentally smudged onto the cream colored fur Emily hesitated staring at the Mark her lips pressing together as if she wanted to wipe it away it’s okay sweetheart Laura said softly a little Mark can be a memory too would you like some tea Michael of course if it’s no trouble he answered removing

his hat and setting it on the shelf his footsteps on the wooden floor were firm and steady enough to be felt as safe presence but never startling Emily he stopped in front of the drawing studying it closely that’s a lovely wind chime where do you plan to hang it

right by the door Emily answered quietly so when someone comes the chime will ring and mom will hear it good idea Michael nodded the bell will bring good news outside on the street a car rattled over a pothole the clang of metal making Emily flinch she hugged her teddy bear tighter her eyes blinking

fast Michael did not look directly at her only shifted slightly shielding her face from the shaft of sunlight this neighborhood gets a little noisy in the afternoon he said casually yesterday I jumped when the garbage truck came by
I told them already tomorrow they’ll come at a quieter hour Emily relaxed her grip the garbage truck it sounds like a drum that’s right but it’s the drumbeat of people bringing cleanliness Michael replied his voice warm Laura carried out a tray of tea and cookies she set a green napkin beside

Emily’s cup try one Emily took a small bite the cookie was crisp the sweetness of ripe strawberries spreading across her tongue she glanced at her mother caught the calm in her eyes then took a bigger bite tell us a story
Emily said hesitantly what did you see on the way here today Michael rested his elbow on the table his voice steady as he began I saw a fat squirrel sitting right in the middle of the road not afraid of the cars at all I had to stop and wait it was chewing on an acorn as big as my thumb eating while

staring at me as if to say this is my share Emily giggled softly a delicate hesitant sound like wind chimes brushing against each other Laura watched her daughter her eyes reddening and quickly lifted her sleeve to wipe them Michael Emily said suddenly

still staring at the new teddy bear if you hadn’t come that day I think I would have lost my mom the room fell silent for a beat Michael set his teacup down his hand gripping the arm of the chair before he loosened it leaning forward he spoke slowly but it was because you were brave enough to call

that I made it in time Emily nodded exhaling in relief her gaze drifted to the kitchen drawer where her mother had placed the phone with the apple sticker her lips moved but no words came Michael did not press her
he simply pulled a small slip of paper from his pocket and handed it to Laura this is Tracy’s number she’s very good at talking with children no rush when the two of you are ready just call her Laura took the paper holding it tight in her palm thank you she hesitated last night Emily slept well she

didn’t wake up startled anymore that’s wonderful Michael smiled turning to Emily how did you do it I put the bell from the drawing next to my bed Emily explained pointing to the picture I thought if the bell rings it means mom is calling me to breakfast

the bell will ring Laura assured her placing a gentle hand on her shoulder a breeze stirred puffing the white curtains Laura stood opened the kitchen cupboard and took out a piece of cardboard and a spool of red thread would you like to make a paper wind chime when the wind blows it will tinkle

softly yes Emily put away her crayons making room Michael helped her cut the cardboard into the shape of a water droplet poking a small hole with the tip of a pen before threading a string through every movement caught the sunlight on the cardboard making it glimmer as if sprinkled with silver dust

let’s hang it by this door frame Michael suggested holding the wooden frame while Laura tied the string Emily stood on tiptoe touching the little paper chime the cardboard swayed gently rustling softly like a sigh did you draw the house again today Laura asked I drew people Emily answered you me

Uncle Michael and two chimes Laura laughed her laughter no longer breaking apart two of them one to hang on the door one inside my heart Emily said with an unusual firmness the one in my heart only I can hear
Michael looked at Laura their eyes met in the light of the room and no words were needed Laura nodded a small nod as if she had finally placed a period at the end of a long unfinished story she had never dared to write the clock on the wall struck with a dry tick half the plate of cookies was gone

Emily picked up the last piece broke it in half and handed one to her mother and one to Michael we should share so the chime can keep ringing longer so the chime can keep ringing longer Michael repeated softly accepting the peace
sunlight slipped through the curtain painting golden tiles of light across the floor Emily hugged her new teddy bear resting her head on her mother’s lap the paper chime stirred gently in the breeze not loud just enough for all three of them to know that this home now carried its own signal of peace

on the table the drawing had grown three small figures standing shoulder to shoulder under a glowing yellow roof and two chimes one hanging at the door and one shimmering steadfastly inside the left side of a little chest
the evening light fell across the lake still and shining like a golden mirror on a wooden bench by the walkway Emily sat in her mother’s lap clutching her new teddy bear tightly against her chest a few yellow leaves drifted down onto the bench twirling once before coming to rest from the playground

nearby came the sound of children laughing and playing rippling like small waves that rose and faded away a ball suddenly rolled to their feet Emily flinched pulling herself into a small knot Laura froze as well her hand tightening instinctively
on her daughter’s shoulder Michael looked at them both gave a nod to the boy who came running to retrieve the ball then sat down beside them keeping a careful distance are you okay he asked gently Emily stared at Michael’s shoes I I don’t like sudden noises her voice was fragile almost like a

whisper then let’s give the noise a warning first Michael tapped twice on the bench hear that nice and slow Emily lifted her eyes and counted with each tap Laura’s shoulders softened for a moment they stayed in silence
letting the breeze pass through letting the rustle of leaves speak like a quiet reassurance that needed no explanation you don’t have to run from every sound Laura said softly you only need to know where you are here Emily placed her hand on her chest then pointed to the bench then gripped her

mother’s hand and here Michael smiled good whenever your heart starts racing try what I do look at four things you can see touch three things you can feel listen for two sounds you can hear and say one thing you know for sure is true I know that Emily’s eyes went to the lake

where the red glow of sunset spread across the surface like a ribbon of silk mom is holding me Laura held her tighter her voice steady and you are breathing so evenly a kite drifted down onto the grass nearby the string pulled tight and quivered lightly Emily watched it her lips pressing together

before softening again I used to be so scared to open the door she said her eyes fixed on the kite I was afraid that if I spoke up things would only get worse Michael rested his hands on his knees patiently waiting through the silence
only when Emily turned back to him did he respond sometimes silence keeps us safe but there are moments when just one phone call can change everything Emily leaned her cheek against her mother’s shoulder I’m still scared she admitted but I want to walk all the way to the edge of the lake that’s your

choice Michael nodded we’ll go as slowly as you need they stood up in those first steps Emily stopped twice because of the sound of a bike rushing past and the sharp whistle of kids playing each time Michael tapped lightly in the air to keep rhythm while Laura reminded her to breathe in and breathe

out
when her feet touched the damp grass Emily set her teddy bear down and bent to pick up a leaf veined with red lines like tiny streams of blood what do you see mom Emily asked I see you standing very tall Laura answered and this red it looks like a brand new thread a thread to stitch up what has been

torn Michael added he crouched down so his eyes were level with Emily’s being brave doesn’t mean not being afraid it means speaking up even when you’re the most afraid Emily stayed quiet she looked at the lake
then at her mother’s eyes and finally turned to Michael in her gaze something had shifted the fear was still there but its sharp edges seemed softer I want to try calling you but not 911 Emily said her voice lower than her age next time if I hear strange noises in the new house I’ll call you Uncle

Michael I’ll say uncle I’m scared but I’m saying it out loud uncle will listen Michael replied three decisive words with no unnecessary promises Laura bent down and kissed her daughter’s hair her tears rolled down but they were as clear as morning dew

speak when you need to my love I am always here a light breeze passed through the trees the sound of children playing in the distance was now just part of the ordinary afternoon in the sky a kite shifted direction caught the wind and slowly rose higher Emily picked up her teddy bear brushing off the

blades of grass stuck to its ear I think the little girl said I can take a few more steps all right Michael stood up a few more steps they walked together each step was like a counted breath an invisible beat keeping rhythm a red thread
stitching together the torn edges of yesterday as the sun sank completely the last rays pierced through the leaves scattering patches of light across their shoulders Emily lifted her face to catch the glow her clear eyes reflecting the crimson of the sunset as if she were answering a question she

had only just Learned to ask and say out loud the message this story wants to leave us is simple courage is not something too grand courage is not the absence of fear courage is daring to speak up precisely when you are most afraid
silence is only a temporary safety speaking up is the path that opens the way to truth to help and to justice protecting the good and punishing the wicked I truly want to know your thoughts please share them in the comments because your answer might help someone in a similar situation find a way out

and are you doing alright today I hope you are safe and that someone is listening to you just as Emily had people who loved and protected her if not remember this there is always someone ready to be by your side