Sleep never came back.
Even after the frantic pounding in his chest slowed down and the phantom coldness around his throat melted away, Cherion lay wide awake in the dark. He remained tucked small against Zarius's chest, staring with dry eyes at the faint orange embers dying out inside the stone hearth.
The fire gave a few quiet crackles in the dim room, but Cherion barely noticed them. His mind was still running in circles, refusing to settle down no matter how hard he tried.
Geez, Cherion thought, letting out a breath so quiet it didn't even disturb the silent air of the bedroom. It really is true. Until you actually experience something firsthand, you can never truly put yourself in someone else's shoes.
