Answer:
I didn't read the book or know the story but I can imagine that if it is meant to be literal, he/she said it because having the disease made him/her more careful and weary.
Explanation:
It is kind of like what happened with this Corona. We heard about the "disease" and became more weary and careful. Also: sharpened our senses.
Answer:
painted
Explanation:
he painted his house, as in past tense. he paint his house wouldn't make sense, so it's painted.
