Chapter 85

Nicholas's eyes fluttered open, groggily taking in his surroundings. He was in his bedroom, surrounded by the familiar comforts of his childhood. But his parents' worried faces hovering over him told a different story.

"Nicholas, oh, thank God you're awake!" Olivia exclaimed, relief etched on her face.

James nodded in agreement. "Son, we were so worried about you. What happened? Who did this to you?"

Nicholas tried to speak, but his throat felt parched and sore. He winced, trying to remember the events leading up to his current state.

"I...I don't know," he croaked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Olivia's eyes widened. "You don't remember? Nicholas, you were found on the street, lifeless. If it wasn't for the passerby who called an ambulance, you might not be here right now."

James's face darkened. "We need to know who did this to you, son. You have to remember something."

Nicholas's mind raced, fragments of memories slowly resurfacing. He recalled the fight, the feeling of being o