SLOANE'S POINT OF VIEW.

My world comes back to me in bits and pieces as I wake up with a cough. Everything burns.

My throat.

My chest.

My heart.

My lungs sting as taking in air feels like being stabbed with a thousand needles.  Suddenly, I'm pulled forward, as something solid collides with my body.

"Breathe, princess. I wouldn't want to kiss you yet. You'd like it too much."

Someone says, as their hands rub on my back. My coughing fit doesn't let me ...