Chapter 45 - scarcely breathe

Heather

The morning sun streamed in through my bedroom window as I slowly blinked awake. I lie down there for a moment, staring up at the ceiling, the memories, it makes me feel nostalgia. As I take in the familiar surroundings. It had been two months since I returned to my adopted family's home in Ferris in Loaka city, and this cozy bedroom makes me feel at home again.

I let a deep sigh, before hauling out of bed and got ready to face the day. Splashing cold water on my face helped wash away the last cobwebs of sleep. As I patted my wet face, I caught my reflection in the mirror. The dark circles under my eyes betrayed many restless nights. Ever since coming back, readjusting to this life had not been easy.

After dressing, I headed downstairs. The smell of freshly brewed coffee drew me to the kitchen. My adopted brother's wife was bustling about making breakfast, a deep frown on her usually cheerful face. Our relationship was still strained, but I hoped with time we'd find our rhyth