Hump Day Hook!

Happy Hump Day! Last week I posted an excerpt from The Edge of the Sphere, the conclusion of Part One. The book isn't totally linear, and there's a lot going on simultaneously. This week, I'll post the last couple bits of Part Two. Enjoy, and don't forget to check out the other hooks this week!

Liora, by Oviot

She stood in front of the sphere, almost close enough for the entire length of her to be pressed against it. Closing her eyes, she thought of nothing but Stephen. She remembered his soothing voice, his fond caresses, and the way she had broken through to him to allow him to unleash his passion on her willing body. It was all so vivid and realistic in her mind, and she hoped it would be enough to reach him.
 
The surface gave way to her first cautious prodding. Inside, the waves of a soft summer’s breeze teased her hands, skimming over the cuffs on her wrists. They beckoned her to enter. She withdrew the quivering extremities, and cast one last look around the basement of her home. Before she could change her mind, Liora stood on her toes and spread her arms out wide. In a daring freefall, she tipped forward into the depths of the sphere.