It was raining heavily outside.
The sound of raindrops striking the window grew loud enough to pull me from sleep. A faint crease formed between my brows as I slowly opened my eyes, irritation flickering across my drowsy expression.
For a moment, my gaze drifted without focus. Then unease stirred, and I straightened abruptly. I rubbed at my eyes, and the dull, throbbing ache in my head made itself known.
My stomach churned. I dragged my tongue over my dry lips, an unfamiliar taste lingering there, and murmured faintly, "Water," as my eyes searched the space around me.
The only sound answering me was the relentless rain hammering against the windows—and the windshield.
Turning my head, I finally noticed Elara seated beside me.
Her eyes were closed, her head resting lightly against the headrest. Her breathing was calm and even, steady enough to tell me she was fast asleep.
