TWENTY TWO: Sephora

Once again, sleep eluded me, my mind adrift with restless thoughts. What if my fears were not mere imaginings? What if the hybrid Demon truly intended to visit me tonight?

I lay in my bed, clutching the sheets to my chest. Aiyana had suggested that I ask Dori to stay with me, to ease my fears. Dori had been in my room earlier; she had helped me into my nightdress, lit the candles, and then departed. I hadn't mustered the courage to ask her to stay—I felt too shy.

The creaking of my door startled me. How long had I lain awake? Had the monster at last decided to reveal itself?

My lips trembled with fear, and I sat up in bed. The sound of shuffling feet echoed at the entrance, and I forced myself to speak.

"Who is it? Who is there?" I called out, my eyes straining to discern a figure in the darkness.

A soft voice responded, "It is I, my lady."