The next morning.

At the break of dawn, Celeste finally stirred from a deep, restful sleep. The medication had done its job, lulling her into a slumber far more peaceful than she had anticipated.

Her body, which had been so tense for days, now felt lighter, more at ease.

Her instincts kicked in as her eyes fluttered open, and she almost reflexively assumed a defensive posture.

But as her mind cleared, she immediately recognized the familiar figure standing ...