The Dying Swan

“Good grief, it’s 8 AM on a Saturday morning. Why’d you wake me?”

“Sorry, but I couldn’t wait any longer. While you slept, I was up with the sweats and then cold chills. I think this flu is going to be the end of me.” “I would like you to get me a cup of hot tea with honey and lemon and some toast.” “And besides my mother got me all upset as well yesterday.”

“What did she do? Does she have the flu too?”

“No, but she called and asked me to go to the mall with her today. I told her I couldn’t, but I sounded funny to her so right away she assumed the two of us were fighting. I couldn’t get in a word edgewise the way she started in on you. Finally I managed to tell her that I was sick and I had not wanted to worry her. Then she goes on about coming right over to take care of me. I told her I was OK alone and didn’t want her to get sick.” "By the time I hung up, I was exhausted and in tears."

“Yup, mothers will do that to you. All right. I’ll get dressed and check the thermometers around the house.” “In the meantime, check your temperature and turn on the TV for company.”

“Well, what is the verdict?”

It’s at 101, so I got a real hot head. Thanks for bringing me the tea and toast.”

“So as not to breathe in any more flu germs, I’m going down to work in my study. I’ve got some stuff I want to check out online. Remember we tried that big bell, and it worked, so if you need me, just ring it, and I’ll come up.”

“Hey, how are you doing?” You were so quiet you got me worrying. Anyway, I brought you lunch: chicken soup and toast.”

“Chicken soup is for colds, and I was quiet because I finally calmed down and took a nice long nap.”

“I’m sure it will help you anyway to get something in your stomach. Meantime I’ll try to find you something amusing like the old Three Stooges reruns.”

“I really doubt they could make me feel better, but if anyone could make me chuckle, I suppose they could.”

“Is that all you could eat?”

“Can’t get even one more noodle in.”

“All right, I’ll take the tray downstairs and come and give you more of that medication.”

“Oh, joy, something to look forward to.”

“Now just drink this down.”

“I am going to be so glad once I shake this flu.” ”Why are you looking at me with that big grin?”

“You know, even though you are all hot and sweaty with those rosy cheeks, you look beautiful.”

“Oh no, you don’t. I am in no mood for any kind of recreation, so just get out of this bed.”

“Aw, come on, just some nice cuddles.”

“You’ll get the flu for sure that way.”

“I don’t care, what a way to go”.