Malorie woke to an intense wave of nausea. She hastily rose, stumbling her way into the restroom to retch into the basin of the toilet. Grandma Judith entered calmly with a basin and a soft cloth, leaning down to gather Malorie's hair in her hand as the girl heaved, bringing up nothing but bitter emptiness.
When it passed, Malorie sank back onto the floor, weak and trembling, while Grandma Judith wiped her mouth with gentle, practiced care.
"Do not be frightened," she murmured, cleaning Malorie's face. "Some days are like this. It may grow worse before it grows better."
Malorie nodded faintly. "Thank you, Grandma Judith."
Grandma Judith smiled, warm and reassuring. "Of course, darling." She rose, poured the water away into the toilet, flushed it clean, then helped Malorie back to her feet.
"Come now," she said kindly. "Let us prepare breakfast."
