16. The Other O

Kim's eyelids shot open, the golden warmth of morning light seeping through the thick curtains.

The scent of pine, fresh grass and musk enveloped her, grounding her instantly. For a heartbeat, she felt disoriented, but then reality washed over her… she wasn’t alone.

Her cheek rested against a solid, steady surface, the rhythmic thump beneath it unmistakable. Her breath hitched as realization dawned: she had ...