Nicolle's POV:

“Nicolle... Nicolle…” I stirred from the depths of unconsciousness, my mind foggy and disoriented, as a voice pierced through the haze, calling out repeatedly. At first, I thought it was part of the darkness enveloping me, but it grew louder. "Nicolle! Wake up, Nicolle!" Who was that? And why did it sound so familiar?

Hissing, I forced my eyes open, blinking against the sudden intrusion of light. The world around me was shrouded in darkness, but the flickering ...