I wake up on the cold, hard floor of a tiny room, confused as I blink my eyes open. I remember being dragged into this room last night by the kidnappers. The darkness has lifted, replaced by a faint light filtering through the small window high above me. I can tell it’s morning, not only from the soft light of the sun but also from the distant sound of birds chirping. I’ve had sleepless nights before, but this is one that will stick with me forever because I barely got any sleep. I don’t know where I am, and panic sets in as the events of last night flood back. I remember being dragged from the van, my heart racing as I struggled against their grip. I remember how Michael tricked me into this trap. I know they’re holding me because they want Alessandro to release Michael, and somehow they

