Nate Bjorn

Chapter 8

Zihana was exhausted. A week had passed and Nate's fever broke little over 24 hours ago. Zihana was just waiting for Nate to wake up. His leg was still red, but the inflammation was lessening. Zihana could ring Nate's neck for not being more careful. That was the one thing that hadn't changed in all these years.

The smell of baking bread filled the house and Zihana inhaled deeply. She loved that smell. It reminded her of home. A sound caused Zihana took glance over her right shoulder. Nate was leaning heavily against the door frame looking like he was ready to get sick. Zihana rushed over to help him before he fell.

"You shouldn't be up," Zihana scolded Nate as she helped him to the table.

Nate sat with a groan before he gave her a weak imitation of his cocky grin. "I smelled baking bread and it made me hungry."

Zihana smacked Nate lightly on the shoulder as she shook her head. "You shouldn't be up moving around. I don't want you to get a fever again."

"How long was I out?"

"A little more than a week."

Nate nodded as he accepted the water that Zihana handed him. She had to help steady the glass. Nate drank his fill before he sniff the air in appreciation. He gave her a sheepish grin.

"Is there anything to eat?"

Zihana gave Nate an apologetic smile. "You will be sticking with broth for at least today. Tomorrow we can start adding soft foods."

Nate gave a groan, but nodded in understanding. "Same me some of that bread will you."

"Of course I will," Zihana said as she set about making Nate some broth.

Zihana sat at the table and watched Nate stubbornly feed himself. She was there whenever he needed a steady hand. Nate didn't say anything. He just flashed her a grateful smile. After two and half bowls of broth Nate was full. His head drooped at the table. Zihana stood and shook Nate's shoulder.

"Come on Nate. Let's get you somewhere comfortable."

Nate nodded as he painfully gained his feet. He leaned heavily against Zihana as she led him to the couch. Once he was settled in and asleep did Zihana change the sheets on his bed and air out his room. She lit some incense and let its sweet smell waft through the house.

Zihana was just glad that Nate was alright. She was going to make sure to give some of the freshly baked bread as an offering to the Gods in thanks for healing Nate. It was the least she could do for their help.