A sharp, dull ache pounded through Lyla's head as she slowly blinked her eyes open. The room was bathed in soft light, the scent of antiseptic in the air making her stomach churn slightly. The beeping of machines echoed faintly, grounding her senses as she tried to gather her thoughts.
Where am I?
Her vision adjusted, revealing a spacious hospital room, pristine and quiet. The crisp white sheets beneath her fingertips felt unfamiliar, and as she tried to shift, a sharp pain radiated through her body, making her gasp softly.
The sound must have alerted someone because, almost instantly, the door swung open.
A man stepped inside, tall, broad-shouldered, with a presence that made the air feel heavier. His sharp features, deep eyes, and neatly styled dark hair should have struck familiarity, but as she stared at him, nothing came.
