#Chapter 75: Proof

Rowena I woke with a start, my heart pounding as the remnants of a nightmare slipped through the cracks of my consciousness. For a few disoriented moments, I simply laid there—staring blankly at the muted sunlight filtering in through my curtains as my mind caught up with reality. It was only when I reached out blindly, my hand finding nothing but empty space and rumpled sheets beside me, that I realized I was alone now. Eric… where was he? I bolted upright, casting my gaze wildly around my bedroom for any sign of him. Nothing. He was gone. Had it all just been some awful dream, then? No… no, I could still smell the lingering traces of his cologne on my pillows, could still feel the ghost of his arms wrapped protectively around me. A quick glance at my clock told me that it had only been a few hours; it was only five o’clock, barely even close to sunset. I guessed I needed the sleep. Suddenly, the shrill buzz of my phone startled me, and I jumped—my hands fumbling beneat