I don’t know how much time passes before I wake.
At first, I think it’s the wind.
The trees scraping against the cabin.
Then I realize the sound isn’t outside.
It’s beside me.
A sharp inhale.
Too sharp.
Blade’s body goes rigid behind me.
His arm tightens painfully around my waist.
“Down!” he snarls, voice raw and unfamiliar.
My heart leaps into my throat.
He shoves me instinctively, rolling partially over me, his body half covering mine like a shield.
His breathing is ragged.
Panicked.
“Blade,” I whisper.
He doesn’t hear me.
His eyes are open but not seeing.
They’re somewhere else.
His chest heaves, sweat already beading at his hairline.
“Blade,” I say again, louder.
His hand grips the sheet like it’s a weapon.
“Clear the—” he starts, voice breaking.
I turn fully toward him and grab his face with both hands.
“Blade.”
His eyes finally focus.
Blue.
Wild.
Lost.
Then he sees me.
Sees the room.
