I did not know when I passed out, but I woke up in that same fetal position, overwhelmed by a profound sense of helplessness. Fatigue and stress clung to me like a heavy shroud, and a slight headache throbbed at my temples. I slowly pushed myself up.
The flames in the fireplace crackled and danced with restless energy. I found myself oddly captivated by how the fire danced and swayed, fixated on the mesmerizing display. The play of light and shadow painted my face as I sat there, basking in the warmth that emanated from the fire.
Bit by bit, its faint heat seeped into my skin, renewing the resolve I had felt earlier.
