PROLOGUE

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I was now wearing a pink corset dress that perfectly hugged my curves, the pink corset dress was a siren's call, drawing attention to my every move, its delicate fabric whispering against my skin.

A playful bow choker adorned my neck, and a white furry hat perched atop my head, adding a touch of whimsy to the ensemble. Pearl earrings glinted against my ears, complementing the black leather high heels boots that grounded the look.

It was my 20th birthday, and Dad had generously gifted me the freedom to use his black card.

My arms ached from the weight of the shopping bags, a testament to the day's indulgences. As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the city streets, I knew it was time to head home. The excitement of the day was fading, replaced by a gentle weariness.

The air hung heavy with the scent of exhaust fumes and the promise of a cool night. It was almost 9:50 PM, and I was making my way to the parking lot after a long day of shopping. My wristwatch ticked, a silent reminder of the late hour.

As I rounded a corner, a figure caught my eye. Tall and shrouded in darkness, he wore a black hoodie, mask, trousers, and shoes. His presence felt unsettling, his intentions unclear.

A shiver ran down my spine. My heart pounded against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat echoing the rising unease in my gut. "Nah," I muttered to myself, trying to dismiss the feeling. "It's probably nothing." But the fear lingered, a persistent whisper in the back of my mind.

I quickened my pace, my steps growing longer and more determined. The parking lot seemed to stretch endlessly before me, the distance to my car growing with every step. I glanced over my shoulder, but saw nothing. He must be hiding, I thought, lurking in the shadows of the bushes.

The sound of footsteps broke the silence, echoing behind me. My breath hitched in my throat. I broke into a run, my legs pumping, my lungs burning. The parking lot seemed to recede further, the distance to my car an impossible chasm.

A hand clamped down on my shoulder, a cold, hard grip that sent a jolt of terror through me. I spun around, but the darkness swallowed the figure. He encircled me, his arms a vise around my small frame. I froze, my voice trapped in my throat.

My eyes darted to the white van parked a few feet away, a desperate hope flickering in my chest. I couldn't shake the feeling that it was my only chance. With a surge of adrenaline, I shoved the man behind me, his grip loosening for a split second. I lunged for the van, my heart hammering against my ribs, and slid into the dark interior. The doors slammed shut behind me, a muffled thud that echoed in the silence.

A damp cloth pressed against my mouth, the world fading to black as the scent of something sweet and sickly filled my senses.

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