In Another's Skin

The Embered Doubt.

Chapter 2: (Aaira's pov)
6 September, 1818.

The world was a blur as I struggled to open my eyes, the weight of my eyelids feeling like a mountain pressing down on me. I blinked slowly, the dim light filtering through the room gradually coming into focus.

The familiar scent of our bedchamber filled my senses, a mix of lavender and the lingering fragrance of Jungkook's cologne. I was home. I remember nothing.

The warmth that enveloped me was comforting, like a cocoon shielding me from the horrors of the past. As I slowly regained awareness, I realized I was wrapped in our soft duvet, my body sinking into the plush mattress beneath me. How long have I been here? It felt like an eternity and yet just a moment.

I tried to move my fingers, and to my surprise, they responded, albeit weakly. The sensation of my fingertips brushing against the fabric of the blanket was almost foreign, as if I had forgotten what it felt like to have control over my own body. Encouraged by this small victory, I focused on moving my feet. Slowly, they responded, a faint tingle spreading through my legs.

A surge of determination coursed through me. I had to see him, to let him know I was still here, still fighting. I turned my head, the effort causing a slight ache, but it was a small price to pay.

My eyes scanned the room, but there was no one. My body was still weak, my eyes barely adjusting to the light. I tried to move my arm to scan the bed, hoping to feel the reassuring presence of Jungkook, but the bed was empty. He wasn't here.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps approaching the room. My heart raced as I closed my eyes, pretending to be asleep. The door creaked open, and I heard it close again. The soft murmur of voices reached my ears. There were two people. Who could it be?

Their footsteps were cautious, as if they didn't want to disturb me. I strained to hear their conversation, hoping to recognize the voices. One was distinctly familiar.

Eerah: She's still so weak.

One of them whispered, the voice gentle and soothing.

Eerah: We need to make sure she's comfortable and not in pain.

I recognized the voice immediately. It was Eerah, our trusted family physician. One of my best friends from the royal academy era. Her presence brought me calm, knowing she was here to help.

Jungkook: She's been through so much.

The other voice responded, filled with worry and love. It was Jungkook.

Jungkook: I can't bear to see her suffer like this.

Jungkook' s voice showed how much he was concerned for me.

I decided to remain in this state, wanting to know more about what had happened while I was unconscious. Jungkook's concern was palpable, and I needed to understand the gravity of the situation.

Eerah: I understand your desperation, My Lord, but it's been 20 days. We're losing all our hopes.

There was a tense silence, and then suddenly, I heard the sound of something shattering. Jungkook had thrown a vase against the wall in frustration. I nearly flinched at the sound but managed to keep my eyes closed, my heart pounding in my chest.

Jungkook: You can't give up on my wife!

His voice was filled with raw emotion, desperation lacing every word.

Jungkook: She's strong. She'll wake up. We just need to give her more time!

Eerah: My Lord, we've tried everything. The medicines, the treatments, they're not working as we hoped. We need to consider other options.