112 The Red Line (Part 1).

Kelly gasped in surprise. Water got into her nose and throat. The girl bent over and began to cough.

"Sorry, I didn't think I would scare you." Barkens immediately turned off the water and patted Kelly lightly on the back. "Is that better?"

She nodded her head, not daring to look up at the man. He was holding her tightly by the shoulders, and there was genuine concern in his voice. His presence inspired calm and confidence, and Kelly did not understand how this was possible.

She was embarrassed. Ohara thought she hadn't been embarrassed for a long time. Or maybe she had never been embarrassed up until now.

Gregor Barkens made her feel something she was not used to.

"Good morning." His morning voice, with a slight hoarseness, gave the girl goosebumps. Again, this strange feeling of déjà vu. Something was familiar, but she couldn't catch what.