Chapter 34

It was like I was floating. Not quite flying, but definitely not on the ground.

Lights are flashing, there is a weight on my chest. It’s getting harder to breathe.

Voices speak in hushed tones around me. I strain to hear what they’re saying, but it’s like I’m underwater.

The lights flash brighter, before muting into a soft orange. One of the voices is suddenly clearer above the rest.

“It’s okay, you’re okay.”

Strong arms hold me for a little while before being replaced with softness on my back. The person lays some kind of cover over me, pulling a series of chirps from me.

“Rest.”

Now I recognize the voice.

It’s Carlos.

Waking up, the house is quiet.

Unsettling.

I push the cover off myself, shakily getting to my feet and leaning against the wall for support.

Deep breaths.

In, and out.

I can still walk, I remember how to do that.

With baby steps, my feet carry me painstakingly slowly towards the door.