The First Rung
written by: Peter Rehn
Light seeped through the fractured snow cover as ice-cold water gripped her still body. In total isolation, she fixed her gaze on the glinting first rung ahead. She kicked forward, lungs burning, seconds stretching thin.
Why had she agreed to this dare? Something was bound to go wrong. That reckless, proving urge had pulled her under.
One last kick, and the ladder was within reach.
Strong arms grabbed her and pulled her up through the opening.
She gasped once, then collapsed.
Relief flooded her until a soft, unfamiliar voice whispered, calm and final:
“Welcome. I’m afraid you didn’t make it.”
Peter Rehn, a Finnish native living in Ireland for over two decades, has recently ventured into the realm of writing. With five short stories under his belt, he brings a fresh perspective and passion for storytelling to his literary endeavours.
Latest posts by Peter Rehn (see all)
- The First Rung - April 25, 2026
- Come to the Cove - January 27, 2026
- What Lingers - October 13, 2025
