Chapter 83

DAHLIA

The first thing I saw when my eyes fluttered open was the faint glow of white lights and the sterile, unfamiliar ceiling above me. Then came the dull ache at the back of my head, the kind that pulsed in slow waves. I winced slightly and turned my head, spotting a vase of half-wilted tulips on the bedside table.

Hospital.

Thank God it wasn’t heaven. I thought I had died.

A soft knock followed, and the door creaked open. Two silhouettes appeared—tall, broad, and achingly familiar. Sebastian walked in first, his expression tight and unreadable, followed by Jack, who carried a paper cup of coffee like it was a peace offering.

I recall Jack fighting that evil woman off me and then Sebastian walking out of the building and then calling my name before I passed out.

I forced a small smile. “Well, if it isn’t my rescue team.” My voice came out hoarse, but I still managed a teasing grin. “You two look like hell.”

Jack chuckled awkwardly. “You