Victor catapulted from the bed to Enora’s side in a flash, body shielding hers in a defensive stance. A quick observation of the room produced no threats, and he turned back to attend to her. Excessive short breaths and shaking hands seized her body, keeping her gaze unfocused and erratic.

“Enora! Hey, look at me. You’re ok.”

It took a moment for her to register. Like a switch, her body reacted and came back into the present. The grip she had reflexively put on his arms ...