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Her almond-shaped eyes glanced at the remaining load and then back at me. “What could possibly be more important than laundry?”
I bit my lower lip, trying not to smile.
Beva was one of the few Prizes I felt I could trust, but in Ikmal, it was better to keep secrets close to your chest.
She sighed, her expression softening. “All right, let’s speed things up. Hand me those stained ones. I’ve got a trick or two up my sleeve.”
Beva’s fingers danced over the garments, her species’ unique ability to manipulate and alter matter coming forward.
Within minutes, the pieces were restored, looking as good as new.
I watched in amazement.
The final pile seemed manageable now, and with Beva’s help, I was making good time.
The rhythmic sloshing of the washing machines and the buzz of the dryers became our soundtrack as we powered through.
Despite our progress, I could feel the weight of time pressing down on me.
Each tick of the clock echoed loudly in my ears, a constant reminder of the ever-narrowing window I had left.
As the last load went into the dryer, I wiped my sweaty brow and took a deep breath.
The laundry room’s atmosphere felt even thicker now.
I was cutting it close.
Too close.
With the laundry done, I rushed to freshen up, splashing cold water on my face.
The sensation was refreshing, helping clear my mind and rejuvenate my tired body.
I caught a glimpse of my reflection — flushed cheeks, determined eyes.
As I stepped out, ready to face whatever came next, a lingering doubt settled in my heart.
Was I really ready to do this?
To try and escape Ikmal prison?
I wasn’t sure.
And the uncertainty weighed heavily as I made my way forward.
* * *
The Prize Pool had become my reluctant sanctuary.
I might be a prisoner, but at least here, I had moments of peace.
The rhythmic breathing of my fellow Prizes filled the dorm room.
It’s not every day you saw an alien hanging upside down from the ceiling, snoring in a high-pitched shrill that I’d come to recognize as a sign of deep, restful sleep.
Another one curled in a ball on the floor, her six appendages twitching slightly as she dreamt.
The various scents that wafted through the room painted a vivid picture of intergalactic coexistence.
