The pain of the loss of my partner made me faint, and when I awoke from my weakness I found myself in a familiar bed. Pillows made of swan feathers still smell of Leon. It's a taste that belongs to us.

Lola was on her knees by the bed, her head bowed, her mouth chanting. When she finally stopped praying and looked up, we looked at each other, and Lola cried first.

"Oh, Miss Emily! You've finally woken up!"

"I want to drink water, can you pour me a glass of water?" My throat was parched, and I felt a tingling sensation with every word I spoke.

"Of course, I'll...