Chapter 14

The room was pitch black when a figure suddenly bolted upright in bed. Joanna gasped for breath, her chest heaving as sweat drenched her forehead and soaked into the pillow. The bedroom door creaked open, and in the next moment, the lights flicked on. George crossed the room quickly and pulled her into his arms. His palm rested gently against her back in a quiet, steady rhythm meant to soothe. Joanna trembled violently, her whole body shaking as sweat poured down her face and neck. But George didn't flinch. He just held her quietly, offering what little peace he could until her ragged breathing started to slow. Joanna slowly looked up, her blurred vision finally settling on his face. Then she looked away and dropped her head. She whispered hoarsely, "I'm sorry. I'm bothering you again." "It's fine. Another nightmare?" he said, his voice soft with concern. "Did you take your medication today?" Joanna was still in a daze, her movements slow as she reached under her pillow for