Chapter 50

　　Serena

　　I woke up to a faint scent of herbs in the air. Blinking my eyes open, the light filtered through my half-closed lids, forcing me to squint. I was welcomed by the blinding light on the white ceiling. To shield my eyes from the brightness, I instinctively used my arms as a makeshift shield.

　　As I stirred, a low groan involuntarily escaped my lips, which appeared to startle the man seated beside me. When he leaned it, I relaized it was Ashford. His face bore a mixture of worry and relief as he met my groggy gaze.

　　“Serena? I am glad you’re finally awake,” he exclaimed. He was scanning me, asking if I fell okay. I smiled at him to assure him I was okay.

　　Then, it was my time to ask some questions. "What happened?" I croaked, my voice still recovering from its slumber. With Ashford's support, I gradually pushed myself up from the bed.

　　“Careful, Serena.” He extended his hand, urging me to be cautious.

　　I scanned my eyes around and asked, “Where am I?”