Evaline:
River's grip on my wrist trembled as I guided him out of the ballroom, each step growing heavier beneath his feet.
The moment we crossed into the empty hallway, the warmth and music of the ballroom disappeared, swallowed by the hushed darkness. Only our hurried footsteps echoed through the corridor. The hotel's lights were dimmer here, flickering once or twice as I supported his weight.
His skin felt far too warm, and a faint sheen of sweat was glistening on his brow. The drug was working fast, faster than I expected, and I had no idea how much time we had before he lost complete control.
I stopped at the far end of the corridor and pressed him gently against the wall, trying to steady my own breath as I kept him upright. We were out of the direct sight from the ballroom, but still close enough to get caught.
