Warmth.
That was the first thing Seraphina became aware of—warmth surrounding her, cradling her, keeping the cold away. Just like the warmth of waking up in a comfy, cozy blanket after a tiring night.
She tried to place where she was, but her thoughts moved slowly, like wading through honey. Everything was foggy, distant, muffled. Safe, though. She felt safe.
Safe.
Safer than she had felt in a very long time.
There was something solid beneath her cheek. Rising and falling in a steady rhythm. A beat drumming against her ear—strong, reassuring, pulling her slowly toward consciousness even as part of her wanted to stay in this warm darkness.
Weight wrapped around her shoulders. Another across her waist. Arms. Arms holding her. Cradling her. Protecting her.
What had happened? Where was she?
Pine. Something darker underneath. Familiar. The scent wrapped around her like a second embrace, and her foggy mind recognized it even if she couldn't quite place it yet.
