Above The Sea

Chapter 9 - Audrey

Over the next several days, I drifted in and out of consciousness. Every single time I woke up, Eve or Gale was by my side, rearranging the blankets, checking the temperature, or simply just sitting next to me, making sure I was ok. One time I woke up, I could hear Eve mumbling to herself, pacing the room. She looked anxious, like something was bothering her. I couldn't make out what she was saying and quickly blacked out again.

As soon as I opened my eyes, I knew this time was different. Instead of like all the other times I had woken, I didn't feel myself slipping back into the realm of unconsciousness. I looked around, ignoring the pain from even the slightest head movement. Eve was talking quietly with Gale in the corner, clearly arguing about something. I couldn't quite make out the words though. Eve looked to be saying something and glanced over at me. Her eyes widened as she saw me staring back.

"Audrey!" She exclaimed, abandoning Gale to sit by my side. I gave a weak smile, laying my head down in a position where I could still look at her.

"This is the first time you've retained consciousness for more than a minute in almost a week! Are you feeling ok? Do you need anything?" Eve asked, her voice revealing her concern though her eyes betrayed nothing. I shook my head, knowing she couldn't give me what I really wanted. Suddenly, I felt nausea bubble up in my stomach. My eyes widened and a hand flew to my mouth, a desperate attempt to hold back my throw up. Eve somehow understood my silent gestures and quickly grabbed a nearby trash can, handing it to me. Without hesitation, I took it from her hands and dry heaved over and over, nothing in my stomach to come up. Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw Eve climb onto the bed behind me. I felt a warm hand on my back and my hair being gently pulled back. Grateful for her presence, I tried to give her a smile but failed as I dry heaved again.

"It's ok, take your time. I won't leave your side. I'm here." Eve reassured, continuing to make comforting circles on my back. Eventually, I stopped heaving, breathing heavily, eyes shut.

"All done?" Eve asked, not moving when I nodded, "Ok, Gale, if you would go get some water and light snacks, like saltines. And some medicine to help with the pain." Gale nodded and exited the room, on her way to retrieve what Eve had requested. I set the trashcan down, and leaned back, forgetting Eve was still behind me. I felt her tense up as I leaned against her torso. Quickly sitting up, I felt my face eat up from other than just my fever.

"No, it's ok! I was just startled. If you want to lean against me, feel free. I told you, I'm not leaving your side." Eve told me, her tender voice reassuring me. Slowly, I leaned back against her, enjoying the warmth she provided. I felt her arms wrap around me, pulling me into her protection. Feeling safe in her arms, I closed my eyes again. As a cramp formed in my stomach, I curled up, trying to make it all stop. I felt a hand snake up into my hair, gently scratching my scalp. The sensation immediately calmed me down and I relaxed, the painful cramps going away. A few minutes passed, the room silent, Eve simply just continuing her soothing movements, not bothering to say anything. Her movements didn't even falter as the door opened, Gale entering the room with medicine, water, and crackers.

"Place them on the nightstand please. Thank you Gale." Eve said, her voice still soft. I felt arms gently sit me up, letting me lean against Eve. I saw her reach out and take the water and the medicine, bringing them to my mouth.

"Can you open your mouth for me? You need to take the medicine." Eve requested. I simply opened my mouth a little bit, allowing her to place the medicine in my mouth and pour water in my mouth. Swallowing, I winced a bit as the medicine slid down my throat.

"You ok?" Eve checked. I nodded again, letting my eyes slide shut, "I know you're tired and you want to sleep, but you should drink some more water and eat some food. You haven't had anything to eat in days, you're most likely starving even if you don't realize it. Will you please stay awake a little longer so you can eat?" Begrudgingly, I reopened my eyes. Smiling, Eve gave me a few crackers.