#Chapter 96 Strength

Grace I awoke on the familiar, albeit uncomfortable, couch in the lab. The harsh overhead lights seemed brighter than usual, casting long, unwelcome shadows on the stark white walls. A bitter taste lingered in my mouth. As I blinked away the remnants of sleep, I became aware of Margaret seated nearby, her expressions etched with concern. "What happened?" I croaked, my voice scratchy from sleep and unease. Margaret leaned forward, her piercing gaze fixed on me. "You passed out." I shuddered. "The... water plant?" "It's fine," Eason said from somewhere else in the room as I tried to sit up. Margaret gave me water. I drank slowly before lifting my gaze to look at Eason. He'd undone the collar of his shirt. He was sweating and flushed. "How long was I out?" "Long enough that you need to eat," Margaret said. "Charles had lunch delivered to your office upstairs." I groaned, rubbing my temples in a futile attempt to ease the headache that was starting to make my eyes vibr