CH.6

The strong glare of the antiseptic hospital lights assailed Serena's senses as her eyelids fluttered open. She was forced to squint in order to combat the uncompromising brightness of the fixtures.

She attempted to shift her position, only for a searing pain to lance through her lower body and rendering her immobile.

She let out a groan of agony.

A glance downward revealed a sea of white linen draped over her form and bandages nestled between her legs.

There was a creaking sound as the door opened, and someone entered.

“You are awake.” The person spoke with a manly voice.

She raised her head to look directly into the eyes of the hospital attendant. "Wh-what happened?" Her voice emerged as a parched croak, the words scraping past her dry throat.

The doctor - a man whose age had etched soft lines around his kindly eyes - regarded her with an expression that was equal parts concern and professional detachment. "You were admitted earlier today," he began gently, "You've sustained signific