69: Devoid of Warmth

I felt an overwhelming sense of warmth surrounding me, comforting and lulling my senses. My body felt heavy, every muscle aching with weariness.

"I know who you are, Emily Fiennes. I know where you live. I know who all your friends are. And I know your weaknesses. There isn't a place on this earth you can run to where I won't find you, and when I do, I'll never let you go."

"No!" I jolted upright, gasping for air.

"Whoa. Take it easy." The deep, husky voice washed over me like a soothing blanket as strong hands held me down.

I blinked several times, trying to focus, while struggling to catch my breath. Slowly, the realization of my surroundings sank in. "Rafael." I realized I was in a bathtub filled with bubbles, the warmth of the water cocooning me. Rafael was crouched beside the tub, holding a washcloth in one hand. His sleeves were rolled up, revealing his muscular arms that now evoked a different memory. I fixated on the exposed portion of his shirt, taking shallow breaths as I