The Frozen Grave
While collecting samples in Antarctica, I was caught in a blizzard.
When I finally made it back to the vehicle, I found the fuel tank drained and my thermal suit shredded into rags.
I screamed for help, but laughter crackled through the communicator. It was the voice of my husband's childhood sweetheart.
"No need to rescue her, you guys! Sophie's got the world record for low-temperature endurance!
"Today, let's see if she can hike across the ice in a T-shirt, all on livestream!"
Then came my husband's doting voice.
"Baby, I've already spoken to the manager. If she pulls this off, you'll get your spot in next month's expedition!"
That was when I understood. My husband had turned me into a stepping stone for her future.
As I shivered violently in the cold, I begged, "Please, Zachary. After all our years of marriage…"
Before I could finish, he cut me off coldly. “Save your body heat and keep walking. Luna's future depends on you.
"You've got the stamina anyway, so just hold on for another five kilometers!"
At that moment, my heart froze solid.
If they wanted me dead, then I would make sure they froze at the base instead.
With trembling hands, I raised the axe, aiming it directly at the base's heating pipes.