12: MORNING RITUALS

Ivy lay in bed, her heart pounding as she stared at the ceiling. The shadows danced ominously, and she couldn't shake the fear of another nightmare. The last one had been so vivid, so terrifying, that the mere thought of it returning made her shiver. She pulled the blanket up to her chin, trying to find comfort in its warmth. Her eyes fluttered shut, and she whispered a silent prayer for a peaceful sleep.

As the night wore on, Ivy's breathing slowed, and she drifted off into a restless slumber. The darkness of her room was replaced by the soft glow of dawn. She awoke with a start, her heart still racing from the remnants of her dream. But this time, it wasn't a nightmare that had jolted her awake. It was the quiet stillness of the morning, a stark contrast to the chaos of her dreams.

The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the faint scent of dew and earth. Birds chirped softly outside, their melodies a soothing balm to Ivy's frayed nerves. She took a deep breath, savoring the tranquility of the moment.

Ivy stretched her arms above her head, feeling the tension slowly ebb away. She glanced at the clock on her bedside table; it was still early. She had time before the day's challenges began. Living with Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) meant that every morning required a meticulous routine to ensure her safety and well-being.

She started her day by carefully donning a fresh pair of gloves and a mask, essential barriers against the invisible threats that lurked in the air. Next, she moved to the bathroom, where she washed her hands thoroughly with antiseptic soap, scrubbing for the recommended twenty seconds. The water was warm, and the familiar ritual brought a sense of normalcy to her life.

After washing up, Ivy took her morning medications, a carefully measured cocktail of pills and supplements designed to bolster her fragile immune system. She swallowed each one with a sip of water, mentally checking them off her list.

With her morning routine complete, Ivy felt a sense of accomplishment. Each step, though small, was a victory in her ongoing battle for survival. She was ready to face whatever the day had in store, armed with the knowledge that she had done everything in her power to protect herself.

Ivy made her way downstairs, the familiar creak of the steps a comforting sound. She found her mother already in the kitchen, bustling around as she prepared breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm toast filled the air. Her mother, Elena, turned and smiled warmly at Ivy. "Good morning, sweetheart. How did you sleep?"

Ivy returned the smile, feeling a bit more at ease. "Morning, Mom. I slept okay, I guess."

Just then, Toby, her Shih Tzu puppy, trotted up to her, his tail wagging enthusiastically. Ivy bent down to pet him, feeling the soft fur under her fingers. Toby's presence was always a source of comfort and joy.

Elena served Ivy a health-friendly breakfast, carefully prepared to meet her dietary needs. The plate in front of her held a colorful array of fresh fruit, a bowl of yogurt topped with granola, and a slice of whole-grain toast. As Ivy began to eat, she heard footsteps on the stairs. Her brother, Liam, appeared, looking fresh and ready for school. His hair was slightly tousled, and he wore his school uniform neatly, the blue tie perfectly knotted.

"Morning, Ivy," Liam greeted her with a grin. "Ready for another day?"

"Always," Ivy replied, her spirits lifting at the sight of her brother's cheerful demeanor.

Soon after, their father, David, joined them. He was dressed in his lab coat, a clear indication that he was heading to the lab for his research. His hair was neatly combed, and he carried a sense of purpose in his stride. "Good morning, everyone," he said, placing a gentle kiss on Ivy's forehead. "How's my brave girl today?"

"I'm good, Dad," Ivy replied, feeling the warmth of her family's support.

Elena, who was a veterinarian doctor, was dressed in her professional attire. She wore a pair of comfortable scrubs in a soft green color, paired with practical sneakers. Her hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail. She looked ready for a busy day at the clinic, where she would care for various animals.

Elena looked at Ivy with a concerned expression. "Did you take your pills this morning?"

"Yes, Mom, I did," Ivy assured her.

The family exchanged greetings and shared a few moments of conversation and laughter, a precious routine that grounded them. Ivy was homeschooled due to her condition, but she had to take a little break recently to rest and recover from her fainting episode. Today, she felt a bit stronger and ready to resume her studies, even if just for a short while.

As they sat around the table, the morning sun streamed through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow on their faces. The clinking of cutlery and the soft murmur of conversation filled the room. Liam chatted excitedly about his upcoming school project, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. David listened attentively, offering advice and encouragement.

Elena poured herself a cup of coffee and took a sip, savoring the rich aroma. She glanced at Ivy, who was quietly enjoying her breakfast. "Ivy, after breakfast, why don't you take Toby for a short walk in the garden? The fresh air will do you good."

Ivy nodded, grateful for the suggestion. "That sounds nice, Mom."

David finished his breakfast and stood up, adjusting his lab coat. "I need to head to the lab now. Liam, are you ready to go?"

Liam grabbed his school bag and slung it over his shoulder. "Yep, all set."

David gave Elena a quick kiss and ruffled Liam's hair before turning to Ivy. "Take care, sweetheart. I'll see you later."

"Bye, Dad," Ivy said, watching him leave with a sense of pride. Her father's dedication to his research was inspiring, and she admired his commitment.

Liam followed David out the door, his small hand clutching his father's as they walked to the car. David would drop Liam off at school on his way to the lab, a routine that had become a comforting part of their mornings.