Bella's POV
Consciousness returned slowly, accompanied by waves of pain that crashed through my body like a relentless tide. My limbs felt heavy, disconnected, as if they belonged to someone else entirely.
A gentle pressure on my hand drew my attention. Warm fingers traced circles across my knuckles, the touch soothing enough to momentarily quiet the ache that seemed to radiate from every nerve ending.
The simple gesture provided comfort I desperately needed, helping me fight through the fog that clouded my thoughts. When I finally managed to pry my eyes open, Derek's familiar face came into focus.
Relief flooded through me instantly. My muscles, which had been coiled with tension, began to relax despite the lingering pain.
"Where are we?" The words came out broken, each syllable requiring tremendous effort as I struggled to catch my breath.
