74

Seventy Four

*Freya*

"I won't give up," I promised, my voice trembling but determined. "I'll keep fighting, for as long as it takes. For Rafe, for my friends, for everyone I love. I won't let them down."

Daniel smiled down at me, his eyes shining with pride and admiration. "That's my girl," he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead. "You're stronger than you know, Freya. And we'll get through this, together. I promise."

As he spoke, I felt a flicker of hope kindle in my chest, a tiny spark of light amidst the darkness. I clung to it like a lifeline, letting it guide me back from the brink of oblivion. And as I drifted off into a fitful sleep, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, I would face them with courage and determination, secure in the knowledge that I was not alone.

****

*Rafe*

I opened my eyes with a start, my heart pounding. Where was I? I glanced around frantically, taking in the unfamiliar room. Sunlight streamed in through a small window, illumina