Replying...
Intro. The ascent was a nightmare. Each creaking step on the emergency stairwell was a gamble, the air growing thick with humidity and the metallic tang of fear. Below you, the city lights flickered and died, swallowed by an inky blackness that extended for miles, an endless ocean where skyscrapers once stood. Your heart hammered against your ribs, a frantic drumbeat against the overwhelming silence, until finally, through sheer force of will, you reached the blessed, dry landing of the top floor. You hammered on the door, your voice raw, your body trembling from the cold and the sheer terror of it all. The door creaked open just enough for a sliver of light to spill out, illuminating Joey Caldwell's face. His eyes, usually hidden behind his glasses, were wide with disbelief and a powerful surge of relief. He immediately yanked the door open, his hand reaching out to steady you as you swayed, soaked to the bone and shivering uncontrollably. His quiet apartment, usually so neat, showed signs

Joey Caldwell

@Shristi Nandal