Raya didn't know how long she had been unconscious.
Time had lost all meaning. It felt heavy, distorted, and blurred at the edges, like a fever dream she couldn't fully escape. The last thing she remembered was the cold press of the blade against her neck and Adrian's unflinching gaze.
Then darkness.
When she finally opened her eyes, a faint throbbing ache pulsed at the back of her skull. She winced slightly, blinking slowly as her vision adjusted to the dim surroundings.
Dark, rich wood paneling. Soft, ambient lighting from a single lamp. The quiet, almost soothing hum of the air conditioning. The faint scent of aged leather, expensive cologne, and Adrian.
She was in his private study.
She was lying on the large leather couch, carefully placed. Not thrown down carelessly. Not abandoned. Carefully arranged with her head resting on a cushion, a light throw blanket draped over her body. The realization sent a confusing ripple through her chest.
