Lorelei

The hospital doors hissed open, and for the first time in weeks, I breathed air that didn't smell like antiseptic and fear.

Penelope was at my side immediately, her hand hovering near my elbow, ready to catch me if I stumbled. The morning sun was too bright, too sharp, slicing through my eyes and straight into my skull. I squinted, lifting a hand to shield my face, and Penelope made a soft sound of concern.

"Too much?"

"A little," I admitted.

She adjusted her pace, positioning ...