32) angelic

Consciousness trickles through me. I keep my eyes closed, relying on my sharp nose. It’s damp. And dark. No light shines behind my eyelids. I can feel restraints on my ankles and wrists. My wrists are against someone else’s. From the scent, I’d say it’s Matteo. I twist my fingers to lock with his and squeeze gently. He doesn’t move. Goddess above I hope he’s still alive. His heartbeats weak but when I pay very close attention I can hear it. I sigh and slump further into my chair as relief floods me. 

I hear a door somewhere open and click shut. Heavy boots thud towards me. 

“Miss Ashyver.” A deep voice comes from right in front of me. “My name is Derek. I’ll be your shadowed for you training. The Daemonium wishes for you to be presented. Are you ready?” 

I tilt my chin up slightly but say nothing. 

A strong, rough hand grabs my cheeks and tilts my head up. I can feel it&