I walk out of my own hallway and try and navigate my way through the cottage to where Mel’s room is, rubbing my eyes to try and adjust to the dark lighting. It’s warm and humid, and my lack of proper clothing lets me feel a welcoming draft against my skin. Having arrived at her room, I put my hand on the handle and carefully turn it so as to make the least noise possible. A soft *click* noise follows, and I slowly push the door open, silently hoping she’s not awake. I take a quick peek around the edge, but my eyes aren’t fully adjusted to the darkness, so it’s hard to see anything properly. Despite this, there’s no stirring noises or anything else that would indicate I woke her up, so I push the door open all the way and take a step inside the room. That’s when my eyes finally adjust to the light and I’m able to see her fully – and I freeze completely.
She’s lying on her side facing away from me, on top of the sheets, almost every inch of her body exposed. A very faint moonlight shines through the window, casting shadows through the room and illuminating the thin sheen of sweet on her skin.