{Lie #6/Audio} ~ sleep your stolid sleep

[unreadability]

[For a long moment, only the sound of Mireille’s slow breathing is audible. The rustle of sheets, as if she is moving, followed by a low gasp. An outdrawn exhalation, then stillness for a couple of seconds. When she speaks, one may notice an uncharacteristic lisp - as if she has problems properly forming the sounds with her mouth. Her voice is

Comments

[simplifyingly]

Mrs. Mireille? Are you all right?

audio;

[unreadability]

I've just... worn myself down.

[Her voice is emotionless. Flat.]

[Audio]

[simplifyingly]

[There's a moment's hesitation.]

I hope that you are able to get plenty of rest, then.

audio;

[unreadability]

Yes, it...

[Hesitation on her end as well. The words are on her tongue, but she doesn't know whether they say too much. Or too little.]

... It shouldn't be so difficult.

audio;

[simplifyingly]

[There's a pause. She can't see it, but he tilts his head in curiosity and concern.]

Are you having trouble getting rest?

audio;

[unreadability]

It's merely because I... don't put in enough of an effort.

[Her tone stays the same quiet whisper, but with an edge of painful apprehension.]

audio;

[simplifyingly]

[He merely sounds confused and, more prominently, concerned.]

What do you mean?

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[unreadability]

[A long pause. A couple of breaths, then an outdrawn exhale.]

My thoughts. I should try to... calm them down. To rest.

audio;

[simplifyingly]

Oh. Is something bothering you?

audio;

[unreadability]

Nightmares...

[Her voice is shaking, and has grown increasingly husky.]

audio;

[simplifyingly]

[Now he simply sounds concerned.]

Would it help to talk about it?