As I enter my room for the night, I'm surprised by how luxurious it is. Thea's charm must be quite potent for her to be able to get this apartment with no money. It makes me wonder about the extent of her powers. I'm not entirely sure what being a harpy entails besides those sharp nails she displayed on occasion, but maybe it includes some hypnotic abilities.

Everything is possible at this point. I don't think I would be surprised at anything anymore.

Releasing a weary sigh, I go to the bathroom, once more surprised by the luxurious amenities. There's a waterfall-style shower that could accommodate half a dozen people. I glance longingly at it. I'm so tired, but I also feel dirty considering how much I've been running around. The dip in the well notwithstanding, I truly need a shower.

Before my eyes can become more sluggish, I shrug off the straps of my dress, shimmying it down my body until it lands at my feet. Stepping out of it, I enter the shower stall, pursing my lips as I get acquainted with the controls.

Once I figure out the settings, I turn on steaming hot water, letting it drape over my body just as steam envelops the entire stall, the glass panels fogging. Warmth caresses my skin, a change from the coldness that's made its way into my bones. Maybe it's the hot water, or maybe it's my newfound optimism. All I know is that the beats of my heart align with the drops of water dripping onto my body before sliding to the floor. The anguish that had previously consumed me melts away as I envision a new future—one where my husband is beside me.

Turning to face the jet of water, I close my eyes as I shift reality in my mind. Stepping back, I feel a block of hard muscle meet my back, his body molding to mine.

Hands caress my rib cage, big palms splayed over my stomach as he draws me closer. The harsh pads of his fingers scrape against the softness of my skin, his nails digging into my flesh.

My breath hitches in my throat as I lean into him, throwing my head back as his searching lips meet the side of my neck, sucking, nibbling, licking.

He cocoons my weary body, laying siege to my mind as he makes me lose myself to the euphoria of those sweet kisses.

The water turns scorching hot, leaving behind red angry trails on my skin, but the pain is but a pulsing sensation, eclipsed by the urgency of his touch.

I pant low in my throat, pushing myself into him, only to lose my balance as I belatedly realize there's no one there with me. It's just me and this aching emptiness in my heart.

The water sprays onto my face as I find myself immobile on the shower floor, my feet spread apart, my gaze fixed on a nonexistent spot.