Emerging From the Haze novel Chapter 5

It seemed like an eternity before the security guards arrived and took charge, eventually escorting Scarlett away.

She was bruised and battered, her clothes drenched in blood. Her eyes were hollow, lacking any trace of life, and her face was locked in an expression of utter despair.

Huddled in the corner, she clutched her head, her body shaking like a leaf. The guards, having learned she was a killer, were on edge. They shot each other uneasy glances before quickly dispersing.

Soon after, the gatekeeper came by, locked the door, turned off the heat, and left for the night. The lounge was empty now, with only Scarlett left behind.

Back in prison, whenever she was beaten and cried at night, the cruel inmates only made things worse for her. So now, even though the pain sliced through her like a knife, she refused to let a single tear escape.

The night seemed to go on forever. The harsh winter wind found its way through every gap, biting into the bruises on her skin until they cracked open.

All Scarlett could do was curl in on herself, biting down on her hand to stifle the pain, the metallic taste of blood sharp against her tongue.

When morning finally broke, the sound of her phone ringing pulled her from the darkness. Seeing Eamon's name light up the screen was like catching hold of a lifeline, and she hurried to answer.

"Renee, did you get the paperwork finished?"

His voice, calm but tinged with concern, was the final nudge Scarlett needed. The tears she'd fought to keep in all night broke free.

Before she could reply, the door swung open.

A wave of panic rushed through her, the fear of her tormentors returning overtaking her thoughts. Not wanting to drag Eamon into the mess, she ended the call abruptly.

Eugene burst in, the morning light spilling over him, his eyes filled with urgency. "Scarlett, I'm here to get you out of here."

Calvin lifted her into his arms, his voice heavy with an unmistakable sense of pain. "Don't be afraid. We're getting you out of here."