Eleanor Croft woke with a start, surprised by the bright sunlight streaming through the hospital blinds. She blinked, momentarily disoriented. Something felt different. Her body didn't carry the familiar weight of exhaustion that had been her constant companion for years.
She took a deep breath—and realized that was it. She could breathe. Fully, deeply, without the stabbing pain that usually accompanied each inhalation.
"Good morning, Mrs. Moreau!" The nurse bustled in with her morning medication. "My, don't you look refreshed today!"
Eleanor touched her throat in wonder. "I slept through the night."
"You certainly did!" The nurse checked her vitals with practiced efficiency. "First time since you've been admitted. The doctor will be pleased."
"I haven't slept through the night in years," Eleanor murmured, still processing this small miracle.
