Vanessa's sedative

"I don't think I can sleep," Kendra moaned.


"I could give her a mild sedative," Vanessa offered.

(Additional text cut)

Vanessa poured warm water into a mug, inserted the tea bag, and stirred in some sugar. "I'm guessing you would prefer your tea drinkable versus scalding." She pulled out the tea bag and set it on the counter. This should be plenty potent.


Kendra sipped at the herbal tea. It was minty and sweet.


Unlike the rest of breakfast, it tasted like something she could finish. "Thanks, this is good."


"Let's start walking to your room," Vanessa said. "In a moment, you'll be glad to be near a bed."


Kendra continued sipping from the mug as they climbed the stairs and passed down the hall. The drowsiness hit her on the way up the steps to the attic. "You weren't kidding," Kendra said, leaning against the wall to steady herself. "I feel like I could just curl up right here and fall asleep."


"You could," Vanessa said. "But why not go a few more steps and sleep on your bed." Vanessa took the mug from Kendra. It was not yet half empty.


The rest of the way to her bed, Kendra felt like she was moving in slow motion. After the painful news about her brother, the numb, detached sensation was welcome. She climbed into bed and instantly faded into a deep sleep, unable to process the final words Vanessa spoke to her.

Chapter 13