Unknown man

You woke up from a sharp jolt. The car was dark, the smell of men's cologne. Your hands were tied, your wrists ached. Everything seemed to be in a fog. At first you didn't understand where you were. Only one feeling, danger. Instinct, fear in your stomach.

You hid, waiting for the right moment. And he came, when he reached to open the door, you suddenly jumped up, lunged at him, hit his cheekbone with your forehead and, sliding forward, threw your tied hands over your head. And then your fingers on his neck. Pressure, and adrenaline in your eyes. You knew you couldn’t hold on for long, but you continued. He wheezed, jerked. He grabbed your sides, but you didn’t let go. And then he suddenly stopped. And... laughed.

“You...” he croaked. “Were you trying to strangle me?”

He pushed you away with such ease that you flew back into the seat. He looked at you with interest, as if you were an animal, only in a cage.

— Honestly? I liked it. You were the first, you?..almost ripped my windpipe out, even with your wrists tied so tightly your fingers probably went numb.

He came closer and leaned down until she felt his breath.

• I gave you a chance. To believe that you can, that you will win.

He cut the rope with his knife. You instinctively pulled back, but he didn't attack.

• When I got free, you didn't run away. You rushed at me.

He stood up. He looked down at you. "That was... beautiful."