ELEVEN PART 2

I struggled to regain consciousness, battling against the heaviness that weighed me down. Gradually, I began to resurface, my senses slowly awakening. Even before I could pry open my eyes, the rough texture of fabric grazed against my sensitive skin, eliciting a groan that escaped into the depths of the blanket.

With great effort, I mustered the strength to move my arms and cast aside the offending cover. Cool air rushed over my fevered skin, and though every muscle protested with soreness, I pushed through the discomfort. What on earth had transpired?

"It's good to see you finally awake," Malik's composed voice reached my ears, breaching the remaining barriers of my consciousness. I cautiously peeled open one eye, adjusting to the brightness that flooded the room.

My dry throat hindered my ability to respond, and damn, that sunlight pouring through the window was blinding. "Here. I'm sure you need this," he said, handing me a bottle of water. Grateful, I eagerly accepted it, squintin