Page 15 of Angel

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Each step seemed more difficult, each foot gained more uncertain.

Angelo’s bedroom doorway appeared, a bright beacon at the end of the tunnel.

So close. I was so close.

I gasped for breath, but realized I’d long ago stopped taking any in. My chest was tight, my throat just as constricted.

I pressed my hand against the wall, trying to keep myself upright. Just three more steps.

Now two…

Darkness bubbled up around the sides of my vision, then covered me completely and took me under.

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