The house was quiet when I stepped out of my room, the first rays of sunlight filtering through the hallway windows. I walked toward Giulia’s bedroom, ready to wake her up for school, but the moment I opened the door, I realized something was wrong.
She was curled up under the blankets, her small arms wrapped around herself. Her dark curls clung to her forehead, damp with sweat. I frowned and moved closer.
“Gi?” I called softly, sitting beside her and placing my hand on her forehead.
She was far too warm.
She let out a small groan, opening her sleepy eyes with clear discomfort.
“My tummy hurts, Isa…”
My chest tightened. I brushed a hand over her flushed cheek and stood up immediately.
“Wait just a second, sweetheart. I’ll be right back, okay?”
I hurried out of the room, calling for
