A tiny notch formed in the thick band.

I pulled my hands apart with all my strength, trying to snap it.

The plastic dug into my flesh, but it didn’t break.

I gasped softly from the pain, instantly freezing to listen.

Footsteps walked away from the door, heading toward the back exit of the building.

Marcus was going to check the car.

That left Evelyn alone in the hallway.

I rubbed the tie against the bolt again, faster this time, ignoring the slickness of my own blood.

The baby kicked, a soft, fluttering reminder of what I was fighting for.

I couldn’t let them take this child from me.

I couldn’t let Marcus win.

*Snap.*

The plastic band gave way, the sudden release sending my hands forward.

I caught myself against the floor, panting silently.

My wrists were raw and bleeding, but my hands were free.

I quickly untied the thin rope around my ankles, shaking my legs to get the circulation moving again.

The cellar was dark, lit only by a single bulb hanging near the stairs.

I looked around for a weapon.