The ring lifted, revealing a hidden square cut into the floor. Eliza tugged, and slowly, the trap door swung open. A gust of stale, cold air rushed upward, carrying the scent of earth and decay. Heart thudding, she pointed her flashlight into the inky darkness below.
Determined not to face the unknown alone, she called Orion’s name. Predictably, he appeared by her side, tail flicking in curiosity. She set him on the sofa with a firm “stay,” not wanting him to wander somewhere dangerous. Then, bracing herself, she descended the creaking ladder into the depths.