Freya

The throbbing of my head woke me up.

A sharp, relentless ache pounded behind my eyes, making me squint and groan softly as I slowly opened them. The sunlight streaming through the large windows was blinding, forcing me to turn my face away with a wince. I lay there for a moment, breathing shallow and uneven, my whole body feeling heavy and sore.

I slowly rose from the bed, my movements sluggish, and glanced around the familiar environment. I was in Ryder’s room, the massive bed, the dark sheets still carrying his scent, the luxurious furniture that screamed power and wealth.

Memories of yesterday came rushing back in a...