Chapter 20: A Sudden Collapse

Scarlett leaned against the kitchen counter, her hands gripping the edge the kitchen cabinet as a sudden wave of dizziness washed over her. She closed her eyes shut, wishing the spinning sensation would stop, but it only seemed to get worse. Her breathing became quick and faster, and sweat gathered on her forehead.

"Scarlett, are you okay?" Nathan called from the entrance of the living room, with concern.

She tried to respond, but the words stuck in her throat. The room continued to spin, and eventually, her knees gave way, she fainted. The last thing she saw before everything went dark was Nathan rushing toward her.

...…..

Scarlett woke up to the sharp smell of antiseptic and the soft beeping of machines. Slowly, the bright overhead lights came into focus. She blinked several times, trying to clear the fog in her mind.