Fait Accompli: An Unwilling Tutelage

[Sal]

Once free, Elke drew in deep, shaking gasps of air, stopping only to cough. Tears stung her eyes and she could feel the heat of bruises forming around her neck like a collar.

Distracted by her regained ability to breathe, she almost forgot the threat of Nevina across the room, temporarily waylaid but very much alive. Sliding quickly off of the bed and onto her feet, she assessed her ability to escape. She could make it to the door if she was fast. Seizing the opportunity, she bolted.