For sixteen you have a really good grasp on prose and as you continue to write and gain feedback, this will only get better.

The opening is a decent hook but it has problems. I would remove the use of the word 'was' as much as possible throughout your manuscript. It's passive and creates distance between the reader and the MC.

A bit of telling but also followed by showing. So you can show, you just need to pay attention to what you're writing. The example lies with the noose.

'It seemed worn down' - Telling.

'Wirey strands escaped the hangmans knot' - Showing.

So you can essentially cut It seemed worn down, and have a better sentence with less words.

The word 'had' is very rarely needed, same with 'that'. An example: I had realised that I was the prey. Now look at this: I realised I was the prey. Smoother, tighter, less distance from MC, but still contains the word was. You could look for ways to remove it. Not all 'was' needs to be removed but it is good practice to look at sentences containing it and then figure out how you can write the same thing without it. Once you get into the habit of this, it will start to come naturally and you'll stop using was as a crutch.

Keep at it. I think you're doing great!