~Joan~

It was dark, but I could hear the voices. Familiar ones. I wanted to open my eyes, but they were too heavy. I wanted to cry out for help, but my voice wouldn't come. Still, I could hear them.

"Hey, Jo. How are you doing today?" It was Aaron. I wanted to tell him I wasn’t okay, that everything hurt, but no words would come. His fingers brushed against my hand, warm and reassuring.

"Open your eyes for me, kitten. I fucking miss you." His voice was strained, thick ...