Since the incident with the patient, I had been experiencing odd symptoms, but nothing had worsened since my three-day fever. Those damn dreams were never ending though. With no severe signs and a doctor's appointment scheduled for next week, I felt it was okay to wait.

A few days later, my phone buzzed with a text from Jake, inviting me for drinks at Eclipse, a trendy lounge and bar in Deep Ellum I had always wanted to check out. "Meet at seven tomorrow night?" he wrote.

Excitement tinged with a hint of nervousness bubbled inside me as I replied, "Would love to. See you there!" The idea of spending personal time with Jake made my heart race, hinting at the possibility of a growing mutual interest.

While holding my phone, I dialed my older sister's number, only to be greeted by voicemail. I left a brief message: "Hey, just checking in. Nothing important. Love you, talk later."

Ending the call, I reflected on how much my sister meant to me and our family. Being several years older, she had always been a beacon of guidance and support. It was her encouragement and practical help that paved the way for me to attend college while contributing to the family. I often felt my own burdens were lighter because she was always there, taking charge and setting an example, a sentiment shared by our younger siblings.

The rest of my day at the hospital passed without any notable incidents. I kept my upcoming meet-up with Jake to myself, uncertain about the dynamics between us and not wanting to share it with Sarah just yet. There were no new developments on the mysterious disappearance of our patient, which left me feeling a mix of disappointment and concern. After completing my overnight shift, I returned home, aiming to catch up on sleep. My plan was to wake up around 2 pm, giving myself ample time to prepare for my evening out with Jake.

As I settled into bed, my mind whirled with thoughts of the upcoming evening. I found it refreshing, almost surreal, how straightforward Jake had been in asking me out. In a world where directness often bordered on disrespect, Jake's approach was a rare and welcome change. I chuckled to myself, thinking about the chaos of dating apps - a wild, often disappointing adventure. I firmly believed I'd rather stay single than endure more of the lackluster dates I'd experienced. Drifting off to sleep, I felt a flicker of hope about this unexpected turn in my otherwise predictable life.

A familiar scene unfolded as I found myself in the nightmare once more. Frightening tendrils of black branches stretched out in front of me, part of an eerie landscape I was quickly becoming all too familiar with. The forest, shrouded in darkness, seemed to close in around me with each step. My lungs burned from exertion, my body aching as I pushed myself to run faster. I really need to work out more, I thought amidst the fear, even as the absurdity of the thought in my current situation struck me. The sound of something pursuing me grew louder, a mix of growls and howls that sent shivers down my spine. Why me? Why the fuck is this happening to me? I questioned internally, my heart pounding in my ears. The pain from the branches felt too real, too tangible for a dream but I would be damned if I had to find out the hard way. I woke up abruptly, my body slick with sweat, gasping for air, and rolled out of bed, feeling the urge to vomit from the intense fear and exertion of the dream.

Taking several deep breaths, I managed to quell the rising nausea. I hadn't thrown up, but it was a close call. I checked my phone – it was just past one. Tempted to catch another hour of sleep, I grimaced at the thought of returning to my nightmares. Opting against it, I decided to start my day.

My morning routine was a welcome distraction. I made tea and settled with my current book, but my thoughts kept drifting back to those haunting amber eyes in my dream. What the hell? I pondered, unable to recall ever encountering such eyes before.

I was reading a captivating romance fiction novel about a fairy with a unique ability. The heroine, a fairy named Lyra, possessed the power to steal abilities from others with a single kiss. Set in a mystical realm, the story wove a tale of intrigue and passion as Lyra navigated the complexities of her power. Torn between her own desires and the moral implications of her ability, she found herself drawn to a human, unaware of her true nature. Their burgeoning romance was set against a backdrop of unfolding mysteries and the danger posed by those seeking to exploit her gift.

My phone alarm chimed, signaling the start of my preparation for the evening. I sighed, marking my page and setting aside my book. Tonight needed a special touch, so I opted for a silk press, a style that would take time but was worth the effort. This decision was primarily due to the lack of time to allow a fresh twist out to dry properly without a bonnet dryer.

I headed to the bathroom, turning on the shower to warm it. The steam began to fill the room, creating a soothing ambiance. Methodically, I untwisted my hair, running my fingers through it to gently detangle it before reaching for my brush. Each twist unfurled revealed my natural curls, which I admired for a moment before moving on.

Opening the bathroom cabinet, I carefully selected my products: a clarifying shampoo to thoroughly cleanse my scalp, followed by a luxurious deep conditioner to nourish my hair. The scalp massager was my little indulgence, turning a routine wash into a spa-like experience. I worked through my hair with the detangling brush, starting from the tips and slowly moving upwards to minimize breakage.

I stepped into the shower, letting the warm water cascade over me, rinsing away the worries of the day. The process was familiar, almost therapeutic, as I massaged my scalp and worked the shampoo through my hair. After rinsing, I applied the deep conditioner, letting it sit as I completed the rest of my shower routine.

After applying my deep conditioner, I indulged in the rest of my shower routine. Once done, I towel-dried my hair and reached for my heat protectant, a must for my 4c hair. I had an inner dialogue about the convenience of brush blow dryers I'd discovered online, which made the process so much smoother.

Ensuring my hair was well-protected, I meticulously blow-dried it, stretching out my curls for the silk press. Setting my flat iron to a high temperature, I waited for it to heat up. I knew from my research that using a higher heat setting for a single pass was key to minimizing heat damage to my delicate hair.

My once time-consuming hair routine now took just an hour, a testament to the efficiency of having the right tools. I admired my straightened hair in the mirror, noting the extra inches since my last straightening. Deciding to give it a quick trim for a fresher look, I carefully rolled my hair into foam rollers and wrapped it in a silk scarf, ensuring it stayed sleek and smooth. With my hair set, I turned my attention to my skincare routine and makeup.

Not one for heavy makeup due to my well-maintained skin, I opted for a sultry eyeshadow mix of oranges, reds, and dark browns to accentuate my deep, almost black-brown eyes. The addition of a few well-placed gold shimmer shadows brought an extra pop to my look. I then finished my makeup with a little eyeliner, mascara, lip liner, and neutral lipstick, creating a look that was, in my opinion, elegant.

I stood before my wardrobe, contemplating the perfect outfit for my date with Jake. I settled on a sophisticated yet alluring choice: a sleek, dark midi dress that hugged my curves just right. The dress had a subtle slit on one side, adding a hint of allure without being too overt.

As I slipped into it, I appreciated how it complemented my figure and skin tone. I chose a pair of understated yet elegant black heels to complete the look.

Looking at my hands, I noted how my recently painted dark raspberry gel nails added a pop of color, bringing an edgy contrast to my outfit. This color was a great choice, I thought, admiring the way it stood out against the darker tones of my ensemble.

Glancing at the clock, I noted it was just before 5. Plenty of time, but with DFW traffic, who knows?

I rummaged through my closet, finding a chic designer bag perfect for my ensemble. After a few sprays of my favorite perfume, Portrait of a Lady, I meticulously placed my essentials: lipstick, lip liner for touch-ups, my cell phone, hand sanitizer, and wallet into the small bag. With everything set, I felt a sense of anticipation for the evening. Let's see if this guy is worth the time, I mused as I headed to my car, feeling strained with anticipation.

--

I arrived at Eclipse, relieved to find dedicated parking. The lounge stood out among the artsy and grungy buildings of Deep Ellum, its exterior exuding high-end elegance. The sign, sleek and sophisticated, glowed softly against the twilight, drawing my attention with its understated luxury. The building, with its clean lines and modern design, felt like a gateway to another world, a stark contrast to the eclectic vibe of its surroundings. The drive from Arlington had taken over an hour, but I felt a sense of pride in my punctuality. Fresh from an invigorating hour-long karaoke session in my car, I effortlessly found a spot, although I eyed the uneven pavement of the parking lot with suspicion. Accustomed to the comfort of tennis shoes and flats, I second-guessed my choice of heels, worried about potentially taking an embarrassing tumble on the irregular ground.

As I approached the entrance of Eclipse Lounge, I noticed the door was guarded by a bouncer. His imposing figure was softened somewhat by his well-tailored suit, giving him an air of sophistication that matched the venue. He looked at me with a cool, professional gaze.

"ID, please," he said, his smile practiced but not entirely warm.

I quickly fished out my license from my chic designer purse, handing it over with a polite smile. The bouncer gave it a cursory glance, then nodded and opened the door, ushering me into the lounge.

"Thank you," I said, stepping past him and pausing to take in the stunning interior of the lounge.

The space was far more expansive than it appeared from the outside, with a decor that exuded masculine sophistication. Tables were arranged around the room, each flanked by plush, rich brown leather half-circle sofas that looked inviting and exclusive. The perimeter of the room featured spacious, private booths, offering a sense of intimacy amidst the bustling atmosphere.

My eyes were immediately drawn to the centerpiece of the lounge – a floor-to-ceiling bar. It was an impressive structure, showcasing alcohol bottles in a way that elevated them to works of art. Over eight bartenders moved behind the bar, their motions fluid and practiced as they handled the flurry of orders with effortless grace.

As I stood there, momentarily awed, servers glided through the space with balletic grace, deftly navigating between tables and the bar. The energy of the place was palpable, an undercurrent of excitement and elegance.

Just as I was about to make my way to the bar, I noticed a hand waving in the air from a booth to my right. Turning, I saw Jake smiling and beckoning me over. He had secured a booth at the edge of the room, a perfect spot for a more private conversation. Feeling a surge of anticipation, I made my way over to him, my heels clicking softly on the polished floor.

As I finally reached the booth, Jake stood up to greet me, his demeanor effortlessly charming. Out of his uniform, he was transformed. He wore a tailored charcoal grey shirt that complemented his athletic build, paired with dark jeans that struck the perfect balance between sophisticated and casual. His hair was styled just so, adding to his overall polished appearance.

I took a moment to appreciate his striking features - the sharp jawline, deep-set eyes that seemed to hold stories, and a smile that could light up the room. He's not just handsome; he's a masterpiece I admired internally, my heart skipping a beat at the realization. Jake, in his element, was not just attractive; he was absolutely delectable.

Sliding gracefully into the booth, I maintained my poise despite the constraints of my midi dress. I gave Jake a warm smile. "Thank you for inviting me. I don't often get the chance to go out like this," I said.

Jake's expression briefly faltered, puzzling me. "Is everything okay?" I inquired, concerned.

Jake seemed to snap back to the moment, his charming smile returning. "Yes, everything's great," he assured me, his smile so disarming it could easily sweep anyone off their feet. I, momentarily caught in the warmth of his smile, felt a flutter of excitement.

Jake leaned in slightly, ensuring I could hear him over the ambient noise. "You look beautiful," he said, his eyes conveying a warmth that transcended mere professionalism.

I felt a blush tinge my cheeks. "You don't look too bad yourself," I replied with a playful smirk.

Spotting a waiter nearby, Jake signaled for him. "Could we have two glasses of your best Château Margaux?" he requested smoothly.

The waiter nodded and quickly went to fulfill the order. Impressed by his choice, I asked, "Do you come here often?"

Jake turned to me, a hint of pride in his voice. "My cousin actually owns Eclipse, so I've been here a few times. It's one of my favorite spots in Deep Ellum."

My eyebrows rose in surprise at Jake's revelation. "This place is definitely impressive," I commented as the waiter returned with our drinks.

As we sipped, Jake leaned in slightly, his curiosity evident. "So, tell me more about your family," he asked, his tone genuinely interested. "You mentioned you're from around here, right?"

I nodded, taking a small sip of my wine. "Yes, as I told you before, I've lived in Dallas all my life. Grew up in a traditional family with four siblings. It was a full house," I recounted, with a hint of nostalgia in my voice.

Jake listened intently, his gaze fixed on me. "It must have been quite an experience growing up with such a big family in the city," he remarked thoughtfully.

"Where are your parents from?" Jake asked casually, sipping his wine.

I thought for a moment before answering. "My mom's always been around Dallas, but my dad was from Louisiana," I shared, wondering why he was so interested in my family's origins.

As our conversation evolved, Jake's enthusiasm shone when he spoke about his rock climbing adventures, especially in Tennessee. "You should see the Obed Wild and Scenic River area," he described with palpable excitement. "It's about 45 minutes from Knoxville. The sandstone cliffs there? They're incredible. Each route has its own unique challenge, and the views are just... breathtaking."

I listened, picturing the scenic cliffs and the lush greenery he described. "There's also Foster Falls," Jake continued. "It's not just about the climbing; the place is stunning. Imagine climbing with the backdrop of a waterfall. It's exhilarating, the combination of nature's beauty and the thrill of the climb."

Hearing Jake talk so passionately about a world so different from my own was captivating. I found myself drawn into the vivid imagery of these remote, beautiful places he spoke of with such fondness.

My chuckle was light but filled with self-awareness. In my mind, I reflected, It would take nothing short of a divine intervention to get me climbing rocks in the middle of nowhere. I pondered the unspoken rule, almost a cultural understanding, that my people typically steered clear of willingly walking into potentially perilous situations. The contrast between Jake's idea of fun and adventure and mine couldn't be more stark, yet it was this very difference that made our conversation so engaging.

As I felt my phone vibrate, I glanced at Jake and said, "I'm sorry, it's my sister Kourtney. I need to take this. With the noise in here, I might have to step outside. Can you give me a few minutes?"

Jake nodded understandingly, his attention briefly shifting to his own phone. "Of course, take your time," he responded with a smile.

I appreciated his easygoing nature as I made my way outside the lounge for a quieter spot. The bustling noise of Eclipse Lounge faded behind me as I stepped into the relative calm of the cool evening air, ready to reassure my sister that all was well.

I smiled into the phone, a hint of excitement in my voice. "Actually, Kourtney, I'm on a date right now. I met a really handsome guy I met at work. I'll call you later with all the details," I said, my heart fluttering at the thought of returning to Jake.

Kourtney's response was filled with intrigue. "Ooohhh, okay sis! I definitely want to hear all about it and who this guy is," she teased.

Hanging up the phone, I felt excitement about spending more time with my captivating date. As I turned to return to the building, a sudden, unnerving sensation washed over me; it felt as if someone was standing right behind me.

Before I could turn around, I felt a jarring impact against the back of my head. Confusion erupted in my mind, a whirlwind of disoriented thoughts trying to make sense of what was happening. Huh? I managed to think, my vision beginning to blur, the edges of my world darkening rapidly.

I knew I should react – scream, run, anything – but my thoughts were sluggish, struggling to form a coherent response. As consciousness slipped away, the world around me lost its shape, enveloping me in an abyss of darkness.