Episode 24

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SASKIA'S POV

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I awaken with a start. It hurts to breathe; the dry air claws at my lungs. I gasp, wheezing violently, and the fingers gripping my hand tighten their hold just as I hear footsteps hurrying in my direction. My brain sends an unhurried reminder to take in short, quick breaths. I do so, halting the panic briskly rising.

The sound of a tumbler hitting a hard surface gives me a hard jolt, and I attempt to make out the details of my surroundings. However, I don’t see anything as my vision remains fuzzy and nebulous. I shut my eyes, re-welcoming the darkness while making efforts to stay calm despite being very much tempted to give in to my frayed nerves, and jitteriness at the worst case that I might not see well anymore.

A woman articulates loudly, and though I don’t hear her statement, I immediately put a name to the voice. “Is she okay? Does she need some water?” She questions at a closer range, and I realise how much I’ve missed her.

Before I can utter a word i