I have to go.
A towel is wrapped around me. A robe? It’s thick and fluffy. I sink into it.
“I heard…” I start but can’t form a full sentence.
I don’t even know what I’m trying to say.
Some commotion? Someone here.
I was in the tub.
Tired.
So tired I couldn’t keep my eyes open.
“Everything is fine, okay?Nothinghappened.”
Something happened.
I need to find my phone. Call Darren. The only one I can trust.
Help. Help. Help.
“You don’t need help!” He’s screaming.
Was I speaking out loud?
“Don’t…” my voice is a whisper. “Let me—”
“You’re dreaming. You’re having a nightmare.”
I’m stuck in a cotton ball. Muffled and comfortable but unable to move.
“I’m awake.”
This time I know I said it out loud.
One hand reaches behind my head, while another one slips inside my mouth. Two fingers press down the back of my tongue and then I’m rolling over, retching.
I throw up over the comforter, the disgusting smell only bringing up more, my hair caught in the slobbery mess.
I glance toward the door. It’s so far away. He looms over me.
“Stop moving! You need to rest, Cassie.” There’s an edge to his voice. So sharp it might cut me.
“It’s not a dream,” I say, but I don’t know if he hears me because I can’t feel his presence anymore. His shadow is gone, along with that cologne he wears.
I must remain alert. I need to fight this.
I’m awake.
And then I’m not anymore.
Chapter 24
Taylor
Now
