Chapter 28

I drifted in and out of consciousness for some time, always whimpering when my mind awoke and pulled me back into reality and embracing the calm when I slipped back under again. At some point, the daylight dissipated and reluctantly gave up its throne so that the night could once again reign. I felt the pressure ease up on my back, intense heat giving way to a cool blanket that helped bring my breathing under control yet I could not release the tension that gripped every muscle and I refused to turn around, preferring the protective nook of the dust-laden corner. I never heard the key turn in the lock. Never heard the sound of Harper's footsteps when he entered the room, nor did I see or hear when he carefully stuck the cardboard down again, shutting out the moonlight. Even when he picked me up, gently cradling me in his arms as he carried me from the room, I still couldn't open my eyes. I just moaned, not wanting him to wake me. It was just so much easier to