I drifted in and out of consciousness for some time, always whimpering when my mind awoke and pulled me back into reality and embracing the calm when I slipped back under again. At some point, the daylight dissipated and reluctantly gave up its throne so that the night could once again reign. I felt the pressure ease up on my back, intense heat giving way to a cool blanket that helped bring my breathing under control yet I could not release the tension that gripped every muscle and I refused to turn around, preferring the protective nook of the dust-laden corner.
I never heard the key turn in the lock. Never heard the sound of Harper's footsteps when he entered the room, nor did I see or hear when he carefully stuck the cardboard down again, shutting out the moonlight.
Even when he picke
