Chapter 52 Distance Apart (4)

• As consciousness slowly returned, my eyes fluttered open, revealing a ceiling that was unfamiliar, stark, and impersonal. A wave of confusion washed over me. My head throbbed with a dull, persistent ache, and my body felt heavy as if weighed down by an invisible force. The lethargy wasn't just physical; it was as if my very soul was exhausted, drained of vitality.
• Turning my head slightly, I noticed a hand gripping mine. It was Karl's. His face, initially etched with concern, transformed into an expression of relief. "Darling, you've finally woken up! I was really concerned after you remained unconscious for long hours. Is there pain? Is it time to see a doctor?” His voice was filled with a mix of worry and eagerness, his fingers probing gently.
• But his touch, once comforting, now felt foreign and unwelcome. The memories of our recent encounters flooded back, fueling a surge of anger and revulsion within me. I jerked my hand away, my voice laced with contempt. "Don't touch me, you monster. I despise you. Avoid me at all costs!” The intensity of my reaction seemed to catch him off guard, his face registering surprise and confusion.