The rooftop wind lashed against Nora, sharp and biting, like it was trying to slice her skin open. Every exposed inch of her body stung from the cold, and the blindfold tied tightly over her eyes only heightened her vulnerability. Her hands and feet were bound, leaving her completely at the mercy of whoever had brought her here.

"Where am I?" she croaked, her voice trembling, barely audible over the howling gusts.

Her head felt foggy—drugged, no doubt. But by ...