Tiara's POV
Pain. That's the first thing. A pounding behind my eyes like someone took a hammer to my skull.
I tried to open my eyes, but the light felt like needles. Everything hurt. My thoughts were scattered puzzle pieces, refusing to fit together.
"She's waking up." A voice—familiar but not quite placed.
"Tiara? Can you hear me?" Another voice, closer. Michael.
I forced my eyes open, blinking against the harsh light. Faces swam into focus—Michael leaning over me, concern etched into his features. Adrian hovering nearby. Others in the background.
"What..." My throat felt like sandpaper. "Where am I?"
"Safe. For now." Michael's hand found mine, squeezing gently.
I tried to sit up, but my body betrayed me, trembling with the effort.
"Easy," Adrian cautioned, supporting my shoulder
