Chapter 126. Coughing up Crimson

“How was your rest?” Skyler asked gently, his voice carrying a note of concern as he tried to draw my attention away from the sudden wave of nausea washing over me.

“Good,” I replied softly, my eyelids fluttering shut for a brief moment as I fought back the dizziness. “I can’t even remember falling asleep. I failed.” The truth slipped out unfiltered.

“That’s actually a good sign,” he said, sounding relieved. “You need all the rest you can get. Savannah has made some tea and prepared a bit of food. It should help settle your stomach—and improve the taste in your mouth.” He paused, leaning forward slightly. “Would you like me to bring it in?”

I shook my head so quickly my hair swung across my face. “I don’t feel like eating or drinking anything right now,” I murmured, my voice faint.

“That’s okay,” he replied with a reassuring smile. “You can eat when you’re hungry or whenever you feel like it. For now, let me give you some space to rest.” He rose to leave, ste