Chapter 44: The Face in the Light
"Let me go!"
Strong arms grabbed her from behind, pinning her in place.
She screamed, twisting and kicking, but the grip didn't loosen.
"Lirian! Relax. It's me," a man's voice said, it sounded urgent but oddly familiar.
"No!" she screamed, thrashing against him with all the strength she had left. "Let me go!"
The voice came again, firm yet trembling. "Lirian, stop. It's me."
His words only fueled her panic.
She couldn't see his face, couldn't trust the voice in the darkness.
Her mind screamed that this was another trap, another tormentor.
"I don't know you!" she shouted, clawing at his arms. "Get away from me!"
The man tightened his hold, lifting her off her feet as she struggled.
"Lirian, stop fighting!" His voice broke, pleading now. "Please... it's me. I've found you."
