CHAPTER Twenty Eight Fuming

  Elena's POV.

  I winced, struggling to open my eyes, but they felt heavy, as if weighted down by an invisible force. After a fierce battle, I finally managed to snap them open, only to be met by a harsh light that pierced my eyes like daggers.

  I groaned, forced to shut them again, and slowly tried to open them once more, gradually adjusting to the brightness.

  As I sat up, a coughing fit seized me, and I struggled to catch my breath.

  Just then, I heard Mercy's gentle voice, "You're awake."

  I raised my head, and my gaze met hers. She rushed to my side, a cup of water in hand, her face etched with concern. The water was a lifeline, and I took a grateful sip, feeling it soothe my parched throat.

  I handed the cup back to Mercy, and she set it down on the dressing table with a gentle clink.

  "Are you okay?" she asked, her brow furrowed with concern.