Aurora's POV
The pain engulfs me like a tidal wave, relentless and all-consuming. I'm vaguely aware of voices around me, urgent and concerned, but I can't focus on anything beyond the agony coursing through my body. Time becomes meaningless, stretching and contracting in strange ways.
When I finally managed my eyes, the room was a blur of white and muted colors. As my vision cleared, I saw Ethan's worried face hovering above me. His green eyes were concerned, and I realized he was holding my hand tightly.
"Aurora?" he says softly. "Can you hear me?"
I try to speak, but my throat feels raw and parched. Ethan quickly reaches for a glass of water, gently lifting my head to help me drink. The cool liquid is a blessed relief.
"What... what happened?" I manage to croak out after a few sips.
