KAIA
Darkness releases me slowly, like pulling myself from deep water.
The first thing I register is warmth. Solid, surrounding warmth. Vincent's arms around me, his scent filling my lungs.
I'm not in the cell anymore.
My eyes flutter open. Sunlight filters through trees overhead—real sunlight, not the cold torchlight of the Fae realm. The smell of pine and earth replaces the rot and blood of that place.
"Kaia?" Vincent's voice is rough with relief. "Can you hear me?"
I try to speak, but my throat is too dry. I manage a small nod instead.
"Thank god." He pulls me tighter against his chest, and I realize he's carrying me. His heart pounds against my ear, too fast, like he's been running. Or terrified.
I turn my head slightly and see Lewis walking beside us, Talia cradled in his arms
