The sound of her voice—the sight of her face—and something struck me. A blow to the heart. Not a physical blow. No . . . it was like my soul was suddenly pierced by a poison-tipped arrow. But this poison sent a jolt of pure ecstasy racing through my blood. I staggered back, clutching my chest, shocked at first. And then appalled. Raising my eyes, I looked at her again. In that moment, I recognized what she was.
