The vice grip that held me is gone. Collapsing to the ground, I gasp for breath, coughing and choking violently. Eventually, normal breathing returns, and my heart slows down. Silence envelops me. I can feel the sun shining on my eyelids. Morning again.

Something soft nudges my cheek. I open my eyes with trepidation. It’s Moriah. Cautiously, I look for the woman.

She is gone, and the orchid is in my hand.

I smile with relief and reach out to pet Moriah. She’s gone. “Moriah?” I call.