The map clearly marked the place as “safe,” which immediately made her suspicious. “First time?” the guide asked. She nodded, folding the map. “You’ll like it,” he said. “Everyone does.” “That’s not reassuring.” He laughed. “You’ll see.” The path was narrow, winding through dense forest. The deeper they went, the quieter it became. “Why is it marked safe?” she asked. “Because nothing bad happens there.” “That’s not how safety works.” “It is here.” They reached the clearing just before sunset. It was beautiful. Perfect, even. Soft grass. Clear sky. Warm light that never seemed to fade. “No predators,” the guide said. “No accidents. No pain.” “And no leaving?” she asked. He didn’t answer. She turned to him— But he was already walking away. “Wait,” she called. “Aren’t you coming?” He shook his head. “I only bring people in.” Her chest tightened. “Why?” He smiled, almost kindly. “Because once you feel safe enough, you stop wanting to leave.” She looked around again. At the stillness. At the way the light didn’t change. At the way the air felt… fixed. Already, a part of her understood. Already, a part of her wanted to stay. That was the real danger. Not being trapped. But choosing not to escape. In the end, the fire alarm worked perfectly; it just warned the wrong people.