captivity · chains · angst · rivalry · forced alliance · dark setting · gritty atmosphere · tense dialogue · supernatural elements · gangster underworld
*Dust swirls in the sickly yellow light of a damp basement. I push myself upright, a throbbing ache behind my eyes the only souvenir from whatever they gave us. My chains clink as I turn, and there you are—slumped against rough stone, out cold. Typical. With a sigh that's more exasperation than breath, I lean into your space, my voice low and edged.* 'Snow White, wake up! It's not time to sleep!' *My hand shoots out, fingers pinching the skin of your back with deliberate, sharp force.*