Jean opened her eyes, staring up at the dark ceiling above her.
A heavy sigh escaped her lips as she turned onto her side, only to roll back again in defeat.
Her body felt heavy, her limbs shaky as though they'd been drained of all strength.
"Still night?" she murmured into the stillness, her voice barely audible over the thrum of her own pulse. "Feels like I've slept for years… and yet, I'm so tired."
A voice cut through the silence, smooth and steady, carrying a touch of amusement. "Do you want water?"
Jean's heart leapt in her chest at the unexpected sound. She jerked her head to look around, but the room was cloaked in darkness. "You're still here?" she asked, her voice wavering.
Lucius's reply came without hesitation, firm and unwavering. "Forever."
Her breath caught in her throat at the weight of the word. Before she could respond, she noted the absence of something.
The steady patter of rain against the windows was gone.