63 She is Indeed Awake!

Shirley finally gained consciousness. Her eyes fluttered open. She squints them, trying to see clearly. After a few unsuccessful attempts, she managed this impossible feat. Looking around she found herself in her hotel room. Her head was heavy as if someone has pounded it with a hammer. She tried to sit but it was to no avail. She could not move her thumb let alone her whole body. Something was seriously wrong with her but what?

She tried to speak but what she heard was toad's croak. Her own sound was unfamiliar to her. Her throat was too parched and did not help her in speaking either. Licking her chapped lips she tried again but the result was the same. She tilted her neck and caught sight of Drake. He was slumped in a chair next to her bed.

What was he doing here?