Raegan tightly enveloped herself in the blanket, her hands frantically scouring for the light switch. Upon finally locating it, she pressed it repeatedly, but the lights obstinately refused to illuminate.

She recalled Erick mentioning that Aurora had begun implementing power-saving measures in response to energy concerns.

In locations such as the conference center, where no one remained after hours, security would routinely deactivate the power, resulting in the shutdown of all equipment.

Raegan hastened back to the desk, intent on locating her phone.

However, amidst the enveloping darkness, her efforts to find it proved futile after an extended search.

There was a telephone on the desk, though.

Raegan picked it up, yet it failed to establish a connection.

Following the power outage, the network remained offline, leaving her unable to connect.

Raegan set the telephone down with a heavy heart, realizing her own cell phone was her last remaining lifeline.

She persisted in searching the floor, despite the scant warmth offered by the thin carpet. The carpet was frigid, sending shivers coursing through her body.

Eventually, her fingers brushed against something solid, and to her relief, it was her phone.

Her excitement turned to disappointment as she grabbed it, only to discover that it had run out of battery.

As the temperature continued to plummet, the wall thermometer ominously displayed an indoor temperature of -0.4 degrees Fahrenheit!

Despair suddenly overwhelmed Raegan.

The darkness's chilly air morphed into a menacing presence, as if it were lurking around Raegan, ready to pounce at any moment.

Wrapped tightly in the only blanket she had, Raegan shivered, unable to gather her thoughts. Mitchel was her sole beacon of hope. She hoped that if it was noticed she was missing, he would think to check his office.

Luckily, Erick, always diligent despite his busy schedule, made it a routine to call Raegan each night to confirm her safety.

This particular night, as work stretched late, Erick contemplated calling Raegan but hesitated, fearing she might already be asleep.

Choosing instead to send a text, Erick texted Raegan and resumed his tasks.

His focus returned to the upcoming celebration for the babies, mere days ahead.