The end of the tunnel came into view like a faint promise—light creeping around the edges of the grim darkness we had been walking in for what felt like days. My steps faltered for a moment, the exhaustion in my legs threatening to give out, but I pushed forward. I didn't care what was waiting on the other side anymore.
I just wanted out.
When we finally emerged, the sunlight hit me like a punch to the chest. It was blinding at first, sharp and unforgiving after so long in the oppressive gloom of the tunnels. I threw up a hand to shield my eyes, the warmth of the sun sinking into my feverish skin.
For the first time in what felt like forever, I could finally breathe.
"I've never missed the sun this much," I muttered, my voice cracking.
Alex didn't respond. He was already moving ahead, scanning the area with sharp, practiced eyes. I followed him, my limp more pronounced now that the adrenaline was starting to wear off.
