When Tommy finally emerged from the haze of unconsciousness, the dim light of the room was like a slap in the face.
Sunday afternoon sunlight struggled to penetrate the thick, dark curtains, casting the space in a sickly yellow glow. The air was heavy with the acrid stench of smoke, making his head spin.
He groggily opened his eyes to find Benjamin standing by the window, a cigarette dangling from his lips like a deadly secret.
"Benjamin!" Tommy croaked, his voice like a rusty gate.
The smoke swirled around him, making his eyes water. He tried to move, but a sharp pain shot through his body, leaving him breathless.
"Aw, Shucks!" he hissed, the words escaping through gritted teeth.
Despite the agony, a wave of relief washed over him, soothing his frazzled nerves. He was safe. For now.
