Everything seemed so serene until a soothing yet aching voice woke her from the slumber.
Ella had been unconscious for a while, with Stefan repeatedly calling out her name. She wanted to sleep, but the desperation in that appeal roused her, and she gradually opened her eyes.
Ella felt something cold rest on her forehead, and her body hurt.
What was wrong with her? she pondered as a hot liquid dropped on her face and she stared at the man who was silently crying while helping her.
"Stefan," she said, her voice thick and hoarse, her throat hurting at the small lift in her tone.
Ella's tongue felt dry owing to a lack of water, yet the name came smoothly from her mouth as she attempted to reach for him.
"Do not talk. The doctor has asked you to relax." Stefan sounded clogged, as if he'd been crying for quite some time. But his hands never ceased washing the fire from her skin.
It was then she noticed she had a fever.
