Chapter 71. First Signs of Illness

[Denali’s POV]

The feel of something warm and sticky pressing against my skin rouses me from my peaceful slumber. It is accompanied by a metallic scent that makes my stomach turn.

Unable to stand it, I snap my eyes open and sit up, then fling the blanket off of me so that I can take in the blood that covers the sheet. Gasping, I try to make sense of what it is that I’m witnessing until a groan escapes Rosco.

Eyes widening, I look over, and my heart drops while my stomach turns.

“Rosco,” I whisper, reaching out and touching his cheek, which is hot to the touch. “Rosco!” I repeat, panic beginning to race through me. “Rosco, wake up!”

As I speak, Rosco’s eyes slowly open, but it is like he isn’t fully able to see me. They’re bleary, and his skin is so pale and covered in sweat.

No. This couldn’t be happening. No. I wouldn’t believe it, but the proof was in front of me.

“Rosco, can you sit up?” I ask, continuing to take him in. “Come on,