Eliana's POV
Dawn came faster than expected.
I could barely remember closing my eyes before the faint glow of morning slipped through the curtains, stretching across the room like an unwelcome reminder that the night had ended… whether I was ready or not.
I hadn't even slept an hour.
My body felt it.
Every inch of me felt heavy, like I had been dragged through something unseen, something that refused to let go even after it was over. My limbs protested as I pushed myself upright, a quiet breath leaving my lips as I sat on the edge of the bed.
For a moment, I stayed there.
Still.
Gathering what little strength I had left.
Then I stood.
The movement came slower than usual, a faint wave of weakness brushing through me before I steadied myself. My fingers reached for the edge of the bed briefly, grounding myself before I moved again.
I couldn't afford to feel weak.
Not now.
Not here.
