(Avery’s POV)

Avery’s eyelids fluttered.

The harsh glare of fluorescent lights stabbed at his eyes as he blinked awake, the sterile scent of antiseptic burning in his nostrils. Cold sweat clung to his skin. Confused, disoriented, he scanned the hospital room.

Wasn’t he… dead?

“Avery!” a voice choked with relief.

Shawn stood at his bedside, eyes red and swollen from exhaustion. His relief was palpable as he rushed forward. “You’re finally awake. How are you feeling?”

Avery blinked, his throat dry, his voice rasping. “I… what happened?”

Memories came crashing back like broken glass—painfully sharp and impossible to ignore.

The crumbling of concrete.

Mia’s lifeless body.

Lilith’s trembling voice pointing...