Mama Elara sneezed. A giant, powdery cloud puffed right onto the clean rug.
She wiped her nose. The dusty spot on her sleeve made her frown.
She tried to stand. Her head spun like a top in the quiet air.
She sank onto the sofa. The wool blanket felt heavy and warm around her shoulders.
She grabbed a cool cloth from the basket. It pressed against her hot forehead.
Water dripped from the cloth. A tiny dark circle appeared on the rug below.
Mama Elara giggled softly. She didn't have to get up for anything right now.
Her breathing slowed. The warmth wrapped around her like a hug.