_Zephyr’s POV_
The last thing I remembered was Kael’s arms wrapped around me, strong, steady, and warm, while the world burned behind us.
I didn’t know when my body gave up. Maybe it was after I saw Elias and the other boy safe. Maybe it was when Kael stopped running and his warmth faded into the cold sting of nothing. But I remember letting go. I remember the darkness. It had been very peaceful, like I was floating.
But then I heard voices. Not loud ones, but soft murmurs. Footsteps. The smell of disinfectant. I blinked against the brightness, my eyelids heavy, and my body sore. Everything ached, especially my foot. A dull throbbing ran through it, pulsing in rhythm with my heartbeat.
I tried to sit up but groaned in pain.
“You’re awake.”
The voice was calm, deep, and familiar.
I t
