KEILAH

I pulled away from Damien, gagging as an unfamiliar, metallic taste flooded my mouth. The kiss had been impulsive, desperate, and now I was paying for it. My stomach churned, and I stumbled back, spitting on the floor to rid myself of the sharp tang lingering on my tongue.

“Ugh!” I coughed, dragging the back of my hand across my lips. The taste was so overwhelming it made my throat tighten, and I could feel bile rising. I rushed toward the kitchen, my bare feet skidding on the cold floor. I fumbled for the tap, twisting it on, and let the water pour into my mouth.

I gargled and...