(1) The counting begins, and we run for cover,
(2) Bursts of energy, dashing this way and that.
(3) Some have a plan, and a destination in mind.
(4) Others are hopeful, that a hiding place they'll find.

(5) We're frantic and giddy.
(6) It's a race against time.
(7) He's coming for us,
(8) Whether we're ready or not.

(9) My favorite part is nestling in,
(10) To a secret spot, far from the crowd.
(11) I'll stay, if I can, until everyone's caught.
(12) I'll spy on the hunter, my stomach in knots.

(13) Undetected,
(14) I listen to my breathing,
(15) the pounding of my heart.
(16) I'm here, but I'm not there.

(17) One time, everyone shouted, "Okay, we give up."
(18) But still I lay hidden.
(19) I'd managed to force the end of the game,
(20) But still I crouched in the bushes, my legs in pain.

(21) I examine my hideout, the contours of the leaves,
(22) The blades of grass, a crawling caterpillar.
(23) The minutiae fascinates me, a world within my world.
(24) One touch from me, and the caterpillar lies curled.

(25) Isn't this a metaphor for life?
(26) I'm in a game within another game.
(27) We're all fascinated by ourselves, and our own life.
(28) How often do we acknowledge others' trouble and strife?

(29) Finally, I'll need to leave my place of hiding,
(30) And join the others, who've started something new.
(31) But deep inside, I'm content and proud
(32) Of being in my world, where others aren't allowed.

Select the detail from the passage that leads to the events in the last stanza.

A. I'd managed to force the end of the game
B. I'll spy on the hunter, my stomach in knots
C. My favorite part is nestling in
D. The pounding of my heart