I have a sore throat with a mild fever and a lump on the right side of my palate that is painful to the touch. what could be going on?

Viral infection: You are probably developing a viral infection and your symptoms in the next few days need to be monitored. Drink plenty fluids and take tylenol, (acetaminophen) stop smoking and rest.

Possibly unrelated: But they might be related. A mass on your palate could be a draining abscess from a decayed tooth, or a lesion related to your smoking habit. This should be immediately evaluated by a dentist so that the proper treatment can be implemented.