Part 4/6:
Once Maddie discovers the intruder, her struggle to escape becomes a battle of wits and willpower. Flanagan masterfully builds suspense as Maddie employs her intellect and resourcefulness, initially barricading herself and searching for means to defend against her attacker. She uses everything from kitchen utensils to her surroundings in a desperate bid to survive.
Flashbacks to Maddie’s inner voice play a crucial role in depicting her psychological state, illustrating her determination to survive against the odds. The ingenuity displayed in her improvised methods of self-defense—from writing messages with her own blood to using her environment—showcases her resilience as the stakes rise.