When it’s close to midnight, I scoot off the bed as silently as possible and drag out the long rope made of sheets. Due to the rain and thunder, I probably don’t need to bother with stealth. It’s drowning out everything, even my thoughts, which is helpful because I might crack in two if I think too hard about any of this.

I’m wearing light grey leggings and a turquoise sleeveless top I dug out of the closet that stretches with my movements. I’m opting for bare feet since I couldn’t find anything to offer me a proper grip.

Balling the rope under one arm, I tiptoe across the room and ease open the door to my balcony. Wind and rain gust through my hair and clothing. It’s been three seconds, and I’m already soaked.

After dropping the mass on the floor, I dig out one end and secure it to the railing, my hands slick. One thing I learned from my father is how to tie a knot that becomes tighter with pressure. It’s a random memory that surfaced at the most useful time possible. I ignore the tears that blur my eyes because this is a stupid thing to cry over and I really don’t have time right now.

Once I’ve secured the sheet rope, I lean over the railing, looking down as rain drips into my eyes. Despite the tempest, the light in Coral’s tank glows softly against the night. I toss the rope over the edge and watch as it tumbles down, hoping I made it long enough. I breathe a sigh of relief when it hits the lower level with a thump.

Everything is wet and slippery, but I push myself up to straddle the railing, gripping it so tightly my hands ache. I quickly glance back at the door, but it’s inconceivable that they could hear anything over this ruckus.

Turning back, I study the churning water and jagged rocks as my stomach lurches. A loud clap of thunder booms across the sky, nearly causing me to lose my balance. My vision spins with vertigo as a cold sweat breaks out at the back of my neck.

Leaning forward, I grab my makeshift rope and heave myself off the side, clinging to it with all my strength. Using the knots I tied along its length, I ease myself down slowly, passing darkened windows and praying no one turns on a lamp to find me dangling outside their window like a fool.

Rain lashes against me, the wind buffeting me from side to side. My rope sways like a pendulum as my stomach climbs up my throat. I grip it with my hands and feet, the wet fabric starting to chafe my skin.