Chapter 99

• Catherine stirred in her sleep, her eyelids fluttering open. The brightness stung, and she quickly shut them again, waiting for her eyes to adjust before opening them once more. A sharp wince escaped her lips, her whole body ached. Slowly turning her head, she saw Alex resting beside her, his head laid gently on the edge of her bed.
• She whispered his name. ''Alex.'' A soft smile curved her lips, as if she had known he would be there. Then she muttered faintly. ''It was worth it.'' Her hand reached out shakily, brushing against his hair as she stroked it with weak fingers. She hadn’t expected him to wake, but he stirred almost instantly.
• Alex lifted his head, startled, and hurriedly stood. ''Catherine, you’re awake! How are you? Are you in pain? Do you need anything?'' His voice was filled with concern.