The night was quiet, but Felicity's small body shivered under the blankets. Grace stayed close, gently rubbing her back and speaking softly.
"Shh… it's okay, Felicity. You're safe. I'm right here," she whispered.
Every few minutes, Grace checked her temperature, making sure the cloth on her forehead stayed cool. She gave her small sips of water to keep her hydrated and held her hand whenever the little girl whimpered in discomfort.
Felicity's eyes fluttered open now and then, looking at Grace with a mixture of pain and trust.
"Grace… it hurts," she murmured weakly.
"I know, I know sweetheart," Grace replied softly, stroking her hair. "But you're strong, and this will pass. I'm here with you."
Hours passed slowly. Felicity's fever made her restless, but Grace never left her side. She whispered gentle words, held her close, and carefully adjusted the wet cloth on her forehead whenever it dried.
By the time the first light of dawn touched the room, Felicity's breathing had slowed slightly, and the fever was less intense. Grace leaned back for a moment, exhausted but relieved.
"You made it through the night," she murmured softly, smiling down at the little girl. "Just rest now. You're going to be okay."
Felicity nestled closer to Grace, finally finding a small moment of comfort. For the first time that night, a quiet calm filled the room.
Meanwhile later the rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains. Felicity stirred slowly in the bed, her small body still weak but calmer than last night.
Grace was already awake, sitting beside her. She gently brushed Felicity's hair back and whispered,
"Good morning, sweetheart. How do you feel right now?"
Felicity mumbled softly,
"A little better…but my head still hurts."
"That's okay," Grace said reassuringly. "Drink some water, and we'll keep the wet cloth on your forehead. You'll feel even better soon."
Felicity obediently sipped the water, leaning against Grace. The little comforted sigh she let out made Grace's heart soften, even though she knew Victoria would likely not care at all.
Grace looked toward the hallway, thinking about how cold Victoria had been last night. She knew she had to protect Felicity and keep her safe. Victoria may not care, but I will. I'll do everything to make sure she's okay, Grace thought firmly.
As the sun rose higher, a faint hope settled in the room. Felicity, though still sick, began to regain a little strength, and Grace stayed close, ready to care for her throughout the day.
Victoria walked past the hallway and glanced into the room. Her eyes landed on Felicity, who was sitting up weakly in bed with Grace beside her.
"Why is she still in bed?" Victoria asked sharply, her voice cold.
Grace looked up calmly.
"She had a high fever last night. She's still weak, and I'm keeping her comfortable," Grace explained softly.
Victoria's lips pressed tightly together. She stepped closer, her eyes narrowing at the sight of Felicity.
"She looks fine to me. Stop pampering her. She's not as sick as you make it seem," Victoria said sharply, her tone full of disbelief and irritation.
Grace shook her head gently, standing her ground.
"No, Victoria. She's burning with fever. Look at her—she needs care. You can't ignore this," she said firmly, her heart racing.
Victoria's eyes flashed with anger.
"I don't want to hear this from you! You're just a worker. Mind your own business and leave her alone!"
Grace's jaw tightened, but she didn't back down. She turned to Felicity and whispered softly,
"Don't worry. I'll take care of you. No matter what she says, you're safe with me."
Felicity clutched Grace's hand, feeling the warmth and comfort of someone who truly cared. Victoria's cold stare lingered for a moment before she turned sharply and left the room, slamming the door behind her.
Grace exhaled slowly, relief mixed with worry flooding her heart. She looked down at Felicity, brushing her hair gently.
No one will hurt you while I'm here, Grace thought firmly.