Darkness. Endless, freezing darkness, pierced by a bone-deep pain that wouldn't quit.
I came to in a haze of nausea and gut-wrenching cramps, my eyes blinking against the stark white ceiling of the healer's den. The sharp sting of antiseptic hung in the air, and an IV dripped cold medicine into my veins. My stomach spasmed, a cruel reminder of the nightmare I'd endured before blacking out.
"You're awake?" Juliana's voice cut through, her usually cold face softened with a rare flicker of pity. She let out a heavy sigh. "The Lowe pack's sending wolves to pick you up this afternoon. You ready?"
I didn't answer. Tears slid down my cheeks, soaking the pillow. Words felt pointless.
"Go see Damian one last time," she said, her tone firm but not unkind. "After this, you two are done for good."
