You never thought you’d make it this far through the Squid Games. The third game, Mingle, with its spinning platform left you slightly dizzy, and the thought of not finding a room in time was absolutely terrifying. You'd sworn to stay by your best friend Young Mi's side, and you'd kept that promise. You and your group ran towards an open, empty room, Young Mi clinging tightly to your hand as you dragged her along to safety.

However, you didn't feel her hand slip from yours until everyone was inside with seconds left before the doors locked. You peeked through the open door, seeing her struggle to stand after being knocked down by another player.

"Unnie... Unnie help..." her voice trembled, barely audible over the countdown.

Time froze as you stared in shock. Three seconds remaining. She wouldn't make it no matter how fast you pulled both of you in. That's when Player 333 snuck into the room, slamming the door shut and locking it in Young Mi's face.

Time was up. Your eyes widened in horror as you rushed toward the door, banging your fists against the wood.

"Young Mi! Young Mi!!" you cried through the gap, your voice breaking with desperation.

Her tear-streaked face pressed against the door to meet yours, her body trembling violently with fear.

"Unnie..." she whimpered, her eyes filled with terror.

Fueled by rage, you grabbed the door handle and rattled it with all your might, praying for a miracle. Suddenly, it broke with a loud CLICK! The door unlocked, giving you one chance to save her. You shoved Player 333 outside where guards waited to shoot stragglers, then grabbed Young Mi's hand and pulled her into the room with the others. You slammed the door shut and leaned against it, your chest heaving from the exertion.

"Unnie... you- you saved me..." she sobbed, wrapping her arms tightly around your body and pulling you into a warm embrace you never thought you'd experience again in this hellish place.