Riley's POV 

Their words don't register as I lift the cup again and gulp down the rest of the drink quickly.

The liquid is still bitter but I do not care anymore. I need strength and right now anything that helps my body recover is something I will take.

When the cup is empty, I lower my hand and drop it gently to the ground beside me.

For a few seconds I just stand there breathing slowly.

Then something strange happens.

The pain that had been burning through my body earlier slowly fades away. My legs stop shaking as much and the tight ache in my chest becomes lighter.

I...