Warmth

For the first time in 5 years, 4 months, and 16 days, Daisy felt warmth.

Sunlight strikes her like a cannon blast. Her hand carrying the fork she used to pry open the shed door immediately releases the object that just saved her life and moves to shield her eyes. Her skin feels as though it has been kissed by fire.

Steading herself, she takes a deep breath. Her first breath of fresh air after being in a musty basement for so long almost makes her queasy. Her nostrils are flooded with the overwhelming floral scent coming from the garden resting beside the shed.

Her heart beat wildly in her chest, fueled by the adrenaline coursing through her veins from her escape. It takes Daisy several moments to acclimate to her new surrounds. But there’s one thing she is sure of. She can taste it.

She is free.