Since the incident at Marlina's house last week, Merilton had not been violent or struck her again. Their lives returned to normal, though it still felt somewhat awkward. With Lysandra spending so much time in hospital and Merilton ignoring her, Marlina eventually found some peace in her home.
Marlina's 36th birthday arrived, bringing with it a sense of unease. Every year, her husband would surprise her, but Marlina knew this time the surprise would be something extraordinary. Although the sun shone brightly over their luxurious house, Marlina's heart was clouded in darkness.
She could not forget the phone conversation she overheard a few days ago, where Merilton calmly discussed plans to lock her in the basement. Marlina could not tell anyone, as Merilton controlled the phone line. She certainly wouldn't go to Tenuksia for help. Despite the fact that Tenuksia had saved her from becoming Merilton and Lysandra's continued victim, she knew that woman would take advantage of any difficult situation in Marlina's life. Ultimately, Marlina decided to play along with Merilton’s game, but on her own terms.
Early in the morning, Marlina got up and acted as though it was just another ordinary day. She made breakfast, set the dining table, and ensured everything looked perfect in anticipation of her husband’s return at noon, probably bringing a birthday surprise. Si Kelabu, her beloved cat, followed her every move loyally, as if sensing the anxiety that haunted her.
As Marlina prepared herself, she hid her second mobile phone, which had been kept secret from Merilton. It was stored under the basement stairs, along with some long-lasting food, clothes, and important documents. She made sure everything was in place, including ensuring the secret exit hidden behind the basement wall was functional.
At noon, Merilton returned home with a sweet smile, carrying a bouquet of flowers and a large gift box. "Happy birthday, darling," he said, hugging Marlina tightly. Marlina returned the hug, trying to suppress the nausea rising in her throat. She knew it was all just an act.  And why so sudden?  What about the all silent treatment?
"Thank you, Merilton," Marlina replied cheerfully, though there was a slight tremor in her voice. She led Merilton to the living room, where they enjoyed tea together. Throughout the conversation, Merilton appeared calm, showing no sign that he was planning something. Marlina also played along, hiding her unease behind her laughter.
That evening, Merilton invited Marlina to a special dinner at their home. "I’m going to cook for you tonight, Marlina. Think of it as an extra gift from me," he said. Marlina pretended to be touched by the offer, though she knew it was only the first step in her husband’s plan.
While Merilton busied himself in the kitchen, Marlina took the opportunity to check the basement once again. She ensured everything was in perfect order. The secret exit still worked, and nothing had been disturbed. Marlina took a deep breath, trying to calm herself before returning to the living room.
The dinner passed with subtle tension. Marlina observed every movement of Merilton, looking for signs of what would happen next. As the clock neared midnight, Merilton finally spoke, "Darling, I have a special surprise for you tonight. But, I need you to close your eyes first."
Marlina nodded, pretending to be excited. She let Merilton blindfold her with a black cloth and guide her toward the basement. Marlina, who had climbed those stairs several times, knew exactly where they were heading. Why wouldn’t I know? I’ve used this path to steal your and Tenuksia’s belongings, not to mention bringing Si Kelabu to the woods, Marlina whispered to herself.
When they reached the basement door, Marlina felt the atmosphere grow colder. "Wait here for a moment, darling," Merilton said before opening the heavy door.
"Now, Marlina, you can open your eyes," Merilton said. Marlina slowly opened her eyes and saw the dark basement. Merilton stood behind her, his smile no longer friendly, but eerie.
"Come in, darling. This is your special gift," he said, gesturing for Marlina to step inside. Marlina had no choice but to follow the command. As soon as she entered, the door slammed shut behind her. The sound of a key turning echoed in the small space.
"Merilton! What are you doing?" Marlina screamed, pretending to be shocked. She knocked on the door, but there was no response from outside. The sound of Merilton's footsteps grew fainter, leaving Marlina alone in the darkness.
However, it was all part of Marlina’s act. She quickly turned on a small light she had hidden earlier. In the dim light, she could see the items she had prepared beneath the stairs. Marlina sat on the small mattress placed in the corner of the room, trying to think about her next move.
Hours passed, and Marlina began to hear strange noises from outside the basement. The sound of slow footsteps, accompanied by indistinct whispers. Her heart began to race. Was this part of Merilton’s plan, or was it Tenuksia’s?
In the following days, Marlina spent her time sitting or lying on the mattress. She worried that Merilton might come to check on her at any moment, but he never came to the basement. Marlina knew Merilton had deliberately left her there to die.
One day, Marlina heard the sound of Merilton’s vehicle leaving the property. Over the next few days, Marlina sat on the stairs, listening for any sign that Merilton was returning home, but to no avail. Eventually, Marlina concluded that Merilton must have gone away for an extended period. Could he have told the neighbours he was going overseas to visit his parents?