This can't be happening... Please let this be a nightmare.

In the abandoned, dark alley, Asher was shivering from the cold and bleeding from several wounds inflicted upon him.

He was unconscious until his eyes flickered open at the sensation of raindrops falling on his face.

When he woke up, it took a moment for the pain to catch up with him. His vision blurred as agony flared across his body. He lay still, fighting down panic and trying not to cry out as each shallow breath sent burning spikes through his chest.

Opening his eyes again, Asher saw that he was lying in an empty alleyway. It was night-time, and it started to drizzle. There was no one in sight, just empty streets illuminated by dim street lights. He knew he needed help but couldn't see a way out without dragging himself along the ground like some kind of animal.