Novel's POV

I woke up sweating profusely. A sharp, hot spike of pain flared where the arrow had hit me, making me gasp. I leaned over the side of the bed and coughed; a splash of bright red blood hit the floor.

“Novel!” Alexei’s voice cracked with panic.

I couldn't hear him clearly. I was still stuck in the dream, my heart hammering against my ribs. I wasn't sure if I was awake or still drifting. Usually, the moment the arrow pierced me, I’d wake up.

But this time was different. I felt the cold heaviness of death, but then I saw her.

For the first time, her eyes stayed...