I woke to warmth flooding through my body. For a moment, I thought I was still dreaming. The soft scent of jasmine lingered in the air. Isabelle's scent. My eyes fluttered open, expecting to see her by my bedside.
The room was empty.
Reality crashed down like a physical blow. She was gone. Memories of our conversation flooded back – her tearful eyes, her promise to wait for me in Veridia City.
"Isabelle," I whispered, my voice breaking on her name.
A nurse bustled in, interrupting my thoughts. "Oh! You're awake, Mr. Knight. How are you feeling this morning?"
I barely heard her, my mind still replaying Isabelle's last words to me.
"Where is she?" I asked.
The nurse checked my vitals, her movements efficient. "Miss Ashworth? She left early this morning for Veridia City. But she made sure everything was arranged for your care."
My heart sank. I'd hoped for one more moment with her, one more chance to see her face.
