Zach's Fragmented Memories

The sterile white of the infirmary was a stark contrast to the crimson that had stained Zach’s vision. He blinked, the fluorescent lights overhead searing his retinas. A dull ache throbbed behind his eyes, a persistent reminder of the darkness that had consumed him. Beside him, Oliver stirred, a low groan escaping his lips. For a moment, relief washed over Zach, a fragile thing in this suffocating silence.

“Oliver?” he rasped, his voice a dry whisper.

Oliver’s eyes fluttered open, unfocused and clouded with a fear that mirrored Zach’s own. He tried to sit up, a sharp intake of breath betraying his discomfort. “Zach… what happened?”