The Serpent & Hawke | Mattheo Riddle | Enemies to lovers

Part 12 - Fun Sucker

Lyanna's POV

I jolted awake, a scream dying in my throat.

My heart thundered against my ribs, each breath a desperate gasp.

Sweat plastered my t-shirt to my skin, cold and clammy.

With trembling hands, I fumbled for the lamp.

"Remember what Fig said." I whispered, my voice quavering. "Deep breaths. Everything's ok."

I closed my eyes, seeking calm, but instead found only horror.

Flames danced behind my eyelids, hungry and merciless. Screams echoed in my ears, a cacophony of terror and agony that felt all too real.

My eyes snapped open, but the nightmare clung to me.

Tears streamed down my flushed cheeks as I slid from the bed, my legs barely supporting me.

I stumbled towards the door.

I needed Fig.

He would know what to do, how to silence the screams.

The screams in my head grew louder with each step, drowning out the sound of my own ragged breathing.

The scent of smoke, a phantom from my memories, filled my nostrils, making me gag.

Finally, I reached Fig's chambers.

My fists pounded against the heavy wooden door, desperation lending strength to my trembling limbs.

"Professor!" I cried, my voice cracking. "Professor, it's Lyanna!"

Eternity seemed to pass before I heard movement within.

The door creaked open, revealing Fig's face, etched with concern and surprise. His eyes widened as he took in my disheveled state.

"Lyanna?" He breathed, reaching out to steady me as I swayed on my feet.

As his hand touched my shoulder, the dam broke.

A sob tore from my throat, the lingering terror of the nightmare mixing with relief at his familiar presence.

"It won't stop." I choked out, the words barely intelligible through my tears. "The fire...The screams...It...It won't stop..."

Fig's arms encircled me, strong and comforting.

As he drew me into his chambers, I clung to him like a lifeline.

"It's alright, come on, let's try and breathe." He murmured, his voice a soothing balm to my frayed nerves. "Let me get you a calming draft."

As the calming potion took effect, my sobs gradually subsided.

Fig's gentle smile appeared through my tear-blurred vision. "Now, how about I make us some tea?"

I clutched the warm mug, staring into the milky brew. Fig's gaze weighed on me, patient and concerned.

"It's never going to stop, is it?" I finally whispered, my voice raw.

"I think it will get easier, Lyanna. You have to be patient. You've been doing really well." Fig encouraged, but his words rang hollow.

A bitter laugh escaped me.

"Have I?" I met his gaze, challenge flaring in my eyes. "I can't sleep, even with your potions. I'm barely eating. I've no friends, no one to talk to besides you. I'm still struggling with classes. I'm a freak and a-" My voice broke, a tear sliding down my cheek. "I'm a murderer."

Fig moved closer, his voice stern but kind. "You are not a murderer. What happened wasn't your fault. It was an accident, ok? You have to stop blaming yourself and move forward."