I opened my eyes and looked around. I didn't immediately realize where I was, expecting to see the same walls, a four-poster bed, and eyes burning with bad fire. But the reality was no better. The events of last night were an icy wave of horror. I fell asleep!
The living room was dusky because of the thick curtains. The logs in the fireplace had long since burned out and now it was chilly. The poker lay on my lap. I didn't immediately realize what had changed. When I did, I was even more frightened. The door Cole had locked last night was ajar. I stood up carefully, keeping my temporary weapon in my hands. My body was struggling. The sleepless nights the night before and the uncomfortable position in the chair had taken their toll. I tiptoed toward the exit, wincing and pulling my head in
