Ava’s POV
Warmth was the first thing I felt. It wasn't the chill of the dungeon or the damp cold floor pressing against my back or the sharp sting of silver or the sickening burn of wolfsbane. Just… warmth.
I tried to open my eyes but my eyelids felt very heavy, It was like I was trying to lift a mountain but I forced them open and the world slowly came into view, the flickering glow of lanterns, the faint smell of herbs and smoke, the murmur of voices close by and then… Kane’s face.
He was bent over me, his eyes filled with exhaustion and relief. His shoulders were tense like he had been carrying the weight of the whole world.
“Ava.” He whispered, his voice raspy and rough. He tightened the grip on my hand, like if he let go, I’d disappear again. “You’re awake.”
“Kane…” My voice crac
