Matt stirred awake, his body heavy and aching as if he’d been hit by a truck. Pain shot through his ribs and jaw the moment he tried to sit up, forcing him to collapse back onto his pillow with a groan.
He blinked a few times, his vision adjusting to the dim light in the room. The ceiling fan spun lazily above him, making annoying sounds and an awkward shadows.
As soon as he groaned again, the door burst open, and Alice rushed in.
“Oh my God, Matt! You’re awake!” she exclaimed, dropping to her knees beside his bed. Her eyes were red and puffy, her voice trembling between relief and lingering worry.
Matt blinked at her, his throat dry. “Alice…what happened? Why do I feel like I’ve been run over?” His voice was raspy, every word laced with discomfort.
Alice hesitated, biting her lip
