The pungent smell of disinfectant assaulted the nose, forcing Nyla to consciousness. She struggled to pry open her heavy eyelids. A wave of dizziness, the hallmark of a mild concussion, washed over her, wringing a painful groan from her throat.Her vision was blurred, a chaotic mix of white and gray. She sensed a figure sitting by the bed.Subconsciously, she assumed it was her best friend."Valarie..."Nyla’s voice was weak and hoarse, carrying a fragility she rarely showed. "My head hurts... I feel like throwing up..."A large, warm hand covered her forehead. The movement was careful, carrying a hint of soothing tenderness.However, the moment that hand approached, a familiar scent invaded her nostrils.It wasn't the fresh scent of Valarie's laundry detergent. It was a cold, woody cologne.Clark’s cologne.Nyla’s eyes snapped open.Her body recoiled backward as if she had been electrocuted. She moved so violently that she didn't even care about the IV needle in the back of her hand,
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