A Way Out (part 2)

Stretching my arms out to the walls,
I realize I seem to be in a tunnel.
There is still an echoing voice
and though I cannot make out the words,
it is clear she is desperate for help.

I close my eyes focusing my attention on the sound,
trying to pinpoint where it is coming from.
With one hand on the damp, rocky wall,
I begin to make my way toward the child.
Careful not to trip on the uneven ground,
I move as quickly as I dare.

It takes a while before the echoing cries sound closer.
Suddenly I am able to decipher the words.
She's calling out "Help! Help! Let me out! Let me out! Please! Let me out!"
Her voice is strong, but raspy, like her throat is sore from shouting.
I want to break out into a run, but I still can't see.
All I can do is yell back, "I'm coming! I'm coming!"

A sudden overwhelming quiet hits me like a heavy blow.
I realize I must have scared her.
I add, "I promise I'm here to help! Keep talking to me."
Still no sound. I stop moving and listen.
Drip-drip. Drip-drip.
Then, "Who are you?"
Without thinking, I blurt out, "I'm you."
and realize in that instant, it's the truth.

Another excruciating silence.
"Oh. I don't want your help."

"What?!? Why not?" I ask.

"Because you're the one who put me here."
That statement takes the wind out of me.

To be continued...