MERRIELYNN.
I woke up slowly, blinking against the bright fluorescent lights overhead.
For a moment, I couldn’t remember where I was, and panic surged through me. But as my eyes adjusted, I noticed the sterile white walls and the faint hum of medical equipment.
The infirmary.
I glanced down and saw the IV line taped to my arm. My other arm—my injured one—was in a sling, but the bone-crushing pain from earlier was gone, replaced by a dull ache. I let out a slow breath, relief washing over me.
“You’re awake.”
Emorie’s voice was soft, but it carried a sharp edge of worry. She was sitting in a chair by my bed, leaning forward with her elbows on her knees. Her usually bright face was pale, and her wide eyes were filled with concern.
“Emorie,” I rasped, my voice cracking.
She was by my
