Jane and the Monster by Sophia Smut

Author:Sophia Smut
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sophia Smut

Chapter

Eight

My eyes flick open and the light sears into my vision, bringing with it a sensation of familiarity. All the dizziness, headache and chills have evaporated, leaving me feeling as though I have been born again. Though I cannot believe how quickly the recovery process has happened, I am thankful for the feeling of strength that now fills me. I may not know exactly how long I have been unconscious, but I revel in the newfound sense of renewal that courses through my veins.

All the events leading up to my unconsciousness in Aldrick's arms come cascading back over me, as well as every lie he told and every truth revealed. I remember his strong arms picking me up off the hallway floor and bringing me to this room. With a surge of hope, I push my head off the pillow, anticipating his presence. But no, I'm alone. Disappointment fills me and a voice in my head says, 'Thanks for saving me, but you still can't be trusted.'

I pull the sheets off me and leave the bed, stretching my arms. As I put my shoes on, the door opens and I turn around to see Herb, Teon, and Knox walk into the room.

"It seems you have recovered. You gave us all a scare, Jane,” Herb says cheerfully.

“Guess I am much stronger than most people here think,” I say with a shrug. I don't know what happened earlier but I don't want to think about this now, while my stomach growls. I don't remember the last time I had a proper meal.

All three of them barely react to my self-affirming statement as they approach me.

“Your total disregard for nutrition is concerning, Jane,” Herb scolds, and I am surprised that he is taking that kind of tone with me.

“You haven't eaten properly since you got here and you're fragile. We all believe you passed out yesterday because you haven't been fueling your body with enough food. After your bath, you will eat a rich breakfast and we don't want to hear any objections.” Teon's warning tone echoes in the silence, underscoring the gravity of their plea.

I force a weak nod, struggling to agree with the condemning voice of my captors. My appetite has become foreign to me as if I have been cursed, leaving me unable to stomach anything more than stale breadcrumbs. They seem content with my answer, so they exit the room to go prepare breakfast. Obviously they mean well and they are all worried about me, especially after last night.

I start putting my clothes on and tuck my shirt in. Every button, each cut and seam is my armor against the unknown. My mind races with questions that creep up from the depths of my consciousness: What is Aldrick's agenda? Will I be able to trust anyone ever again? As if on cue, Herb and Teon reappear at my door like specters come to haunt me.

“Your breakfast is ready,” Teon announces.

When I get to the dining room, I eye the table laden with food, my mouth watering as I imagine how good everything will taste.

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