As the door closed behind them, the sound of the world outside fell away.

Zara moved to the wall, her chest rising too fast, her skin hot enough to burn. She tried to steady herself, but the floor tilted beneath her. Her hands shook as she reached for her bag again, searching for her key, but the zipper slipped, her grip useless.

Jake took the bag from her and dropped it on the chair. “Stop,” he said. His voice was rougher than usual, lower.

“I need…” She shook her head. ...