The Cellar

Sixteen-year-old Summer Robinson vanishes without a trace, thrust into a nightmarish existence. Trapped in a hidden cellar with other girls, she uncovers her captor's twisted world. He calls them his 'flowers'—perfect, pure. But flowers cut off from the sun wither quickly. Will Summer find a way out before time runs out, or will she become another wilted bloom in his collection?

The dull, grey sky pressed down on Long Thorpe, a stark contrast to Summer Robinson's mood. GCSEs were finally over, and tonight, freedom called in the form of a local gig with friends. Her boyfriend, Lewis, had let himself into her room, his familiar smirk in the mirror a comforting presence.

"You look beautiful. As always," he'd said, offering a ride she'd politely refused. "No thanks, I'm fine walking." She'd always walked, fiercely independent.

As she stepped out, the familiar pavement led her towards the pathway next to the graveyard – the only part of her walk she disliked. An uneasy feeling settled over her, a subtle chill despite the summer evening. She pulled her jacket tighter, quickening her pace. The social club was almost in view.

Then, a dark figure emerged from behind a hedge. "Sorry, dear, did I frighten you?" Old Harold Fox. A sigh of relief escaped her.

Minutes later, after parting ways with her friend Kerri, Summer found herself alone again, heading towards the sports center. A deep voice called out, "Lily?" from behind. She spun around, stomach dropping. A tall, dark-haired man. His satisfied grin sent shivers down her spine.

"No. Sorry. I'm not Lily." Her voice was a nervous mumble. He repeated, "No. You are Lily." Fear clawed at her throat. She tried to back away, her mind racing for an escape, but before she could blink, he grabbed her, his hand clamping over her mouth, muffling her screams. Her world went black.

The Cellar

Psychological Hostage Kidnapping survival Abduction