Chapter 15. Resolution

Victoria’s POV

The sterile scent of disinfectant stung my nose as my eyes fluttered open. Harsh, fluorescent light flooded my vision, and I blinked, groaning softly as the dull ache in my body made itself known. My throat was dry, my limbs felt heavy, and the rhythmic beeping of a machine nearby kept time with my disoriented heartbeat.

“You’re awake.”

The deep, familiar voice startled me. I turned my head too quickly, wincing as the movement sent a sharp pain through my neck. Sitting in the chair beside my hospital bed, dressed impeccably despite the faint creases in his shirt, was the man from the arrogant man from the cafe.

“Wh-what are you doing here?” My voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper.

He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, and studied me with an intensity that made my skin prickle. “You nearly drowned. I was there. I pulled you out.”

Images of icy water and my frantic struggle against the waves flashed through my min