The breeze coming through the trees rustled the leaves and stirred my mind. I counted each and every second to take away from the burning in my lungs. I needed oxygen. Even the muscles in my legs were starting to burn and ache. Carefully, I sipped the air like a fine wine, taking in

only a few short breaths. There was still a bitterness that lingered, but I knew I couldn’t hold out much longer.

Through slanted eyelids, I stole a glimpse of the world around me. The vibrations of the night have stilled to the point of slumber. With the coast clear, I popped my eyes open and gulped...