CHAPTER 200: Adventure With A Stranger

"My place," the stranger replied, his voice low and soothing. "It's not far. You can crash there for the night." Emily's eyes fluttered closed, her body relaxing into his embrace. She didn't know this man, but something about him felt cool. Maybe it was the way he held her, like she was fragile and precious. Maybe it was the way he smelled, like a warm hug on a cold day. As they walked, the city lights blurring together, Emily felt her consciousness slipping away. She was vaguely aware of being lifted into a car, of feeling the softness of a bed beneath her. The next day, when she opened her eyes again, she was in a strange room, the windows casting a pale light on the walls. The stranger sat beside her, his eyes watching her with a gentle concern. "Hey," he said, his voice soft. "Welcome back. You passed out” Emily's head throbbed, her mouth dry. "What...what happened?" The stranger smiled. "You had a bit too much to drink, I think. But you're safe now. You're at my place. I t