“Emma, Bambina, wake up.” Jake’s voice comes at me through the darkness, and suddenly I’m aware of music, people, and a lot of noise. Warm fingers trace my jaw, and I push my face into them, rubbing like a greedy cat at the touch. I choke on the atmosphere and come to in complete confusion. I find my neck stiff from the angle I’ve been curled up at the booth's corner.

“I’m going to lift you, okay?” warm, strong, familiar arms slide under my legs and behind my back, and ...