Le’al turned over. Pulled her knees up to her chest. Then rolled back into sleep.

"Good day, beautiful," Pearl said to her. "I come to answer your questions."

Le’al said "Thank you," and woke from the sound of her own voice.

She sat straight up. Scooting forward fast.

"No, no."

She slammed her hand on the edge of the bed. Then slowly laid back down. The bed was soaked. Le’al rubbed her hand along the sheets. Then her forehead, face. She tossed the sheets off of her. Got out of bed and rushed to the light. Turning it on.

The smell was thick, heavy.

Le’al fumbled with the pillow. Moved the sheets back and forth. She wiped along her stomach and thighs.

"Sweat," she said, partly cupping her nose and mouth.

Her legs went weak, and she sat on the bed. Realizing her headache. Not wanting to remember what she was dreaming.