Chapter 71

"Fire!" Somebody screamed, sending the entire company into chaos as people rushed to escape the building. The elevators were not an option. As they hurried down the stairs, they soon realized the fire had reached the fourth floor. Thick smoke filled the stairwell, obscuring their vision and making it difficult to breathe. Forced to retreat, they returned to their office on the eighth floor, gasping for air. Meanwhile, Pearl didn't join the frantic rush downstairs. When she turned around, she found Richard behind her, holding two wet towels. "Use this so you won't inhale the smoke." Pearl then dialed 911 and raised her voice to address the anxious crowd, "Calm down. Panicking won't help. Anyway, we may be in danger, so listen to me if you don't want to die." Despite their fear, everyone looked to Pearl for guidance. "Grab some towels or clothes, wet them, and cover your mouths and noses. Drench your clothes as well to protect against burns and to keep cool. We'll line up and d