Raw throat

Simone felt sick. Her throat was raw. Her nose felt congested. She looked up from her computer and said, "I don't feel well."

"Close the windows," suggested Simone's husband. "It's freezing in here."

"I'm okay," protested Simone.

"You wouldn't be if you took off your winter coat. Close the windows."

"But I can't breathe in here!"

"The hydro bill is going to go through the roof!" Simone's husband blurted out, obviously exasperated with Simone's stubborn behaviour.

Simone mumbled and grumbled but she closed the windows. She took a tentative sniff. Lo and behold, the smell of oil paint had abated to a nearly acceptable level. Renovations are ever so much fun...