Suzy lay still on the bed. The remnants of the dream clung to her like a faint mist. Her brow was slightly furrowed, her breathing shallow. It had all happened so quickly. One moment she was reliving that terrifying memory, the next, a single word, "Doris," escaped her lips, and then, nothing. She had slipped into unconsciousness.
Ryan had been frantic. He'd paced the room, his heart pounding in his chest, after finally sending someone to call Dr. Abernathy. The doctor had arrived promptly, his black bag in hand, a look of concern on his face. He'd examined Suzy carefully, checking her pulse, her breathing, her reflexes.
"She had a shock in her sleep, she's out of danger, Your Grace," Dr. Abernathy had said, after his examination. "She needs rest. Nothing more."
Ryan had let out a breath he didn't realize he'd been holding. "Thank you, Doctor," he replied, relief washing over him.