CHARLOTTE

When I opened my eyes, the car had slowed to a halt in front of a building. The air felt different - oddly familiar. I was too drowsy to look around and assumed it was the alcohol creating the effect I wanted when I started drinking. Without much thought, I went back to sleep.

A light tap on my shoulder stirred me. I tried to open my eyes, but muttered something incomprehensible instead. The last thing I heard was Thiago’s chuckle before I felt my body being lifted from the seat.

“Can’t let you fall asleep here. Let’s get you somewhere comfortable,” he said softly.

Instinctively, I wrapped my...