Chapter 156: Fever
The next morning Auntie Gu noticed it was already 9am and Tang Xue Mei wasn’t downstairs yet, a frown creasing her forehead.
The house was unusually quiet, with no sign of Tang Xue Mei, who typically rose early. Concern growing, Auntie Gu decided to check on the Tang Xue Mei, especially mindful of her delicate condition.
She climbed the stairs, her slippered feet making soft sounds on the steps. Reaching Tang Xue Mei’s door, she paused, listening for any movement inside. Hearing nothing, she gently knocked. "Young Madam? Are you alright?"
When no answer came, Auntie Gu carefully opened the door and peered inside. The room was still dark, curtains drawn against the morning light. As her eyes adjusted, she spotted a figure huddled under the blankets on the bed.
Approaching quietly, Auntie Gu noticed Tang Xue Mei’s labored breathing. She was curled up tightly, her usually neat hair disheveled and damp with sweat. Her face was flushed, and she was shivering despite the room’s warmth.
"Oh, dear heavens!" Auntie Gu murmured, placing a weathered hand on Xue Mei’s forehead. Her skin felt hot to the touch, confirming her suspicions of a fever. Her worry intensified, knowing the potential risks to both Tang Xue Mei and her unborn child.
Tang Xue Mei stirred at the contact, her eyes opening slowly. "Auntie Gu?" she mumbled, her voice weak and scratchy. "What time is it?..."
"Hush now, Young Madam.." Auntie Gu said softly but firmly. "You’re not going anywhere today but the hospital. You’ve caught a fever, and in your condition, we must be extra careful."
Tang Xue Mei tried to protest, she needed to get up, she hadn’t told what and what not to do today.
But Auntie Gu was already moving about the room with purpose. She opened the curtains slightly to let in fresh air, then gathered a basin of cool water and a soft cloth.
"I’ve finally reached my limit" Xue Mei said weakly, attempting to sit up, one hand instinctively moving to rest on her stomach.