I hug Aicelle to my chest, thrilled and ecstatic that she’s still alive. She laughs breathlessly and says, “You are suffocating me, Holly.”
I loosen my arms around her and study her face. She is still pale and her cheeks are hollow. I can’t even imagine the torture she went through while outside the residential zone.
Her eyes lit up and say, “Don’t look like that at me, Holly. Contrary to all of your beliefs, I am very grateful that you managed to save me. I really thought I will die before you can rescue me.”
“I am sorry, Aicelle…” I feel the tears coming. “The things you suffered…” I say.
“… is okay. It was hard, but right now, I am just glad I am back here.”
She reaches for my hand and whispers, “I heard of the things you and Cara had done for me. Rather than you, I should be the
