Grunts and low groans echoed as Lana's boots skidded against the wall. She pushed herself upward, arms straining.
The rope swayed dangerously each time she hauled herself higher.
It hadn't been long since she started climbing, yet she was already breathless.
Angelica grimaced.
"Are you sure this is a good idea?"
Lana paused, her silhouette a dark blotch against the pale light far above. Her breathing was loud, echoing down the shaft.
"You got a better one?"
Angelica went quiet.
She scanned the basement again. There wasn't a single open vent, much less another door. There was only one exit, and she would have preferred it stayed shut.
So there was only one way out, and she was looking at it.
"You just need to hold on tight, alright?" Lana said, adjusting her grip.
"I'll do the heavy work." She whispered to herself, but there was nothing to swallow her voice.
Angelica swallowed hard.
