#Chapter 102: Waking Up

Ardal My vision is spotty as it slowly returns. I gasp for air, my heart hammering from the flood of cortisol and adrenaline. Suddenly, the screams begin. “Mommy’s a vampire!” Milo’s shrill terrorized cry pierces my ears. I fight to stay awake, dragging myself out of the foggy dream realm. “No, I’m not,” I croak, as I come into full consciousness. The noise dies off around me as six sets of eyes watch me like hawks. Kadeem steps forward, his gaze falling to my chest as it heaves, rising and falling rapidly. His eyebrows knit together in suspicion and he places his hand over my thumping heart. “I don't believe it," he says breathlessly, before tentatively taking my scarred hand in his own - the one with the mark Jack had branded me with using magic. "That's a cow," I say sarcastically, quickly scanning my surroundings for hints of him. "Long story." Kadeem hesitates for a second, emotion reflecting in his stormy eyes. He pulls me into an embrace