I don't know what woke me from the everlasting sleep that cradled me in its arms of peace and cloak of darkness. The alley was still just the same, albeit much colder and a lot darker. The gang was still in the building, and I could hear them roughhousing. I really didn't want to know what was going on in there.

Tana and Maddy were probably worried sick about me. It was so frustrating, I was just a few blocks away from our flat but I had no way of letting them know where I was! The thugs had taken my cell phone, there was no way they were going to risk me calling the police. If they didn't smash it or anything, the government might be able to triangulate on the signal...

I was getting my hopes up. I would probably be dead by the time anyone found me. I just wished they would hurry up and get it over with.

Suddenly, someone stumbled out of the door, like they had been pushed. It took my eyes a moment to adjust with the low light, but I recognized him as the younger blonde boy. The door slammed shut, and I heard a lock click from the other side. He sighed, and sat down on a stack of tires by the door.

"W-who are you?" I asked.

"Irrelevant," he replied. "The real question is, who are you?"

I frowned. "And why the hell would I tell you that?"

"Fair point. However, it might be a great deal easier to get out of here if we know each other."

My heart skipped. Was he just playing with me, or is he actually planning on getting me out? "I'm Lani, that's all you need to know," I told him.

"Flynn Carsen," he introduced himself with a smile. "Your name's really beautiful."

"I get that a lot," I replied. "So... what are you doing out here?" I asked Flynn.

"They kicked me out for the night," he said. "It happens often. They think I'm a softhearted wimp, which isn't too far from the truth."

"If you're so softhearted," I asked, "why are you even part of this gang?"

"I never wanted to be. My dad died, and my mum fell into depression. I was left on the streets. One of the members of the gang, his name is Zeke, he felt bad for me. Persuaded the guys to take me in. I've never felt welcome here, but they've taken care of me, so I've stayed," he explained. I was left speechless. I thought my life had been horrible, but it seemed like Flynn had it even worse.

"What's your story?" he asked me.

"I'm an orphan from the American/Canadian war. Two of my closest friends are too. The government gave us a flat here in London to live in until we're 18. Maddy, Tana, and I have lived together for a few years now." I sighed. "I really miss them."

Flynn's face became stony as he stared into space. Neither of us said a word. Small snowflakes began to fall from the sky, melting before they hit the ground.

Eventually, Flynn looked back at me. "Listen, Lani... I'm gonna get you out of here."