The morning sunlight filtered softly through the cream-colored curtains, casting pale stripes across the room. My body felt strangely heavy, as if the blankets were made of iron instead of cotton. Every breath burned against my throat, and my skin prickled with alternating chills and heat.
I blinked weakly, the world swaying for a moment before coming into focus. My head throbbed dully, and I could barely lift my hand when I heard faint footsteps rushing toward the room.
"Sister!" Mireya's voice cracked with panic as she burst through the door, her long hair swaying. "Brother, come quickly—Lea's burning up again!"
I turned slightly, my dry lips parting to speak, but no sound came out. The next thing I saw was Maxen rushing in after his sister, his usually composed face clouded with worry.
