The hand released me after a minute of struggling.

            When I managed to gather enough air to breathe, I turned away from the fountain. 

I search for someone’s presence. But no one’s around. I looked to the side, behind. In front and on top of Selena’s Wall where ravens usually rest.

            But no one was around me; no one was with me in Aurora’s Waters in this gilded fountain. Only silence devoured the entire space.

            “Elaine, you’ve been—oh my Aurora, why are you so wet?!” Melissa rushed to me, holding on to her belly as she ran to where I am sitting on the ground.

            “I’m fine—for now,” I replied...