Flashback ( PDFDrive )

Darkness flooded Sophie’s mind. But it was softer somehow.
Peaceful.
A sliver of shade on a scorching day.
The first wisps of a long, quiet night.
The shadow of a perfect hiding space.
Her consciousness curled up, snuggled in, folded the layers over
like blankets, and sank into the sweet, soothing black.
Seeking shelter.
Craving rest.
Feeling safe.
Dreams beckoned, and she let them guide her to that hazy line
between present and past. Thought and memory.
And slowly, her mind crossed over.
But that was a mistake.
That was when the darkness shifted.
Tightened.
Grabbed hold and dragged her down, down, down. To that cold,
lonely abyss.
Where the monster was waiting.
She thrashed and flailed. Screamed for help. But the beast was
already roaring—Gethen’s voice again. Each taunt scraping away
scabs and tearing open wounds.
Predictable.
Weak.
Preparing your replacement.
We can find you.
See you soon.
And the monster was only getting started.