The living-room was as quiet as it always was at that time of the night. All the nurses were either sleeping or delivering babies, and Sister Monica Joan, who usually provided the nuns with most of their nightly entertainment, was sound asleep in her room. The only sound that echoed in the tiny room was Sister Bernadette's shallow breath, and, perhaps, Sister Julienne's worried thoughts.
"Are you quite sure you don't want to lie down for a moment, Sister?" The older woman asked while rubbing her back soothingly. "You look like you could use some rest."
"Thank you, but I think I would rather keep reading until I can get my eyes to close." Sister Bernadette forced a timid smile. "It is not as If anything else works these days."
Sister Julienne sighed. "I do hope you know that is not the healthiest way to live, regardless of what is keeping you awake."
The younger nun nodded and rested her head in the couch. "I appreciate your concern, Sister. Please, it is late, and you are very tired; I can see it in your eyes. Go to sleep, and maybe I will be ready to talk in the morning."
Sister Julienne smiled fondly. "Why did that sound more like an improbability than a desire to me? If you need me, do not hesitate to go and reach me." She got up from the couch. "Goodnight, my dear." She brushed her cheek and gasped. "But, Sister, you are burning up!"
Sister Bernadette withdrew from the touch, fearful, and protested quietly. "It is just a mild fever. I am sure tomorrow it will have gone away."
"Honey, I do not know if those are tears or not, but your eyes are bright nonetheless. You are crying, or you have a very high fever; you deserve my concern either way."
"Please, Sister…" She sobbed. "Not tonight. Just not tonight."
"Oh, my poor girl." Sister Julienne sat down once more and hugged her tightly. "Come here. I will stay with you until you fall asleep."
Sister Bernadette wiped her tears with a quivering hand and relaxed into the comforting embrace. "Th- Thank you, Sister."
She rested her head on Sister Julienne's lap and her breathing slowed down. Minutes passed, and the young woman was sound asleep, while her comforter was debating over what to do. Suddenly, the door opened and closed with the usual calmness after a job well done, and Cynthia tiptoed down the corridor.
"Cynthia!" Sister Julienne whispered. "Cynthia!"
Cynthia squinted her eyes at the living-room, apparently surprised that the light was still on. "Oh! Sister Julienne, I didn't see you there." She smiled, and then frowned. "Is everything okay?"
"No, Cynthia, it is not." The nun glanced worriedly at the sleeping Sister. "Can you do me a favor?"
"Of course, of course." Cynthia nodded, confused.
"Call Dr. Turner. Tell him Sister Bernadette is ill, and tell him to come as soon as he can. If my predictions prove to be right, then an hour will make all the difference."
The petite nurse stared at her with wide eyes. "I will do just that. Poor Sister."
Sister Julienne thanked an already running Cynthia, and patiently waited for the verdict. A few minutes later, she heard quick steps.
"Dr. Turner says he will be here as soon as he can, and he will bring Timothy with him, as he cannot leave him with anyone this late. I told him where you were, so he should have no problem finding you once he arrives." Cynthia informed, suppressing a yawn.
Sister Julienne smiled, thankful. "Go to sleep, dear. Thank you very much, we will talk in the morning."
Cynthia smiled, embarrassed. "Thank you, Sister. I hope all will be fine."
"Me too… me too."
Alone again, Sister Julienne found herself drifting to a state of sleepiness. Let us hope Dr. Turner can help you, sweet girl. And I do mean help you, in every possible way.
A/N: Every review is highly appreciated. Tell me if you like it, what you want to read in the next chapters, whatever you think to write I'll read and be very happy you took the time to write it.
Inamioly
