Frost & Fire

I stirred, coming awake in pieces. A warm blanket soft under my chin, woodsmoke tickling my nose. A muffled thud from the next room pierced my consciousness and my eyes popped open. I blinked, my eyes trying to adjust to the bright light shining through the frost-etched windows.

For a moment I froze and tried to keep my breathing slow and steady, trying to orient myself to the growingly familia sensations surrounding me. I lay perfectly still, reveling in the warm of the blankets and the soft mattress cradling my body.

Another thud, followed by a muffled curse, shattered the tranquil moment. I sat up, my brow furrowing as I recognized Garrick's voice. Swinging my legs over the edge of the bed, I winced as my bare feet touched the cold wooden floor. Grabbing one of the blankets off the bed, I wrapped it around my shoulders and crept toward the door.

The door creaked in protest when I pushed it open just enough to call out. "Garrick? Is that you?"

I pushed the door open wider with my fr