Goodbye, My Love

A quick glance told Loraine that the dishes weren’t exactly what she’d ordered, but rather healthier, low-sugar versions suitable for a patient. Even a dish of butter-fried foie gras had the fatty liver replaced with chicken breast, yet the presentation was so meticulous that one would mistake it for real foie gras at first glance. Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

Loraine felt that her intelligence had been underestimated.

She picked up a piece of Lean meat and feigned surprise.

“Mr. Bryant, where did you find such an athletic goose? The meat is so firm that I thought it was chicken.”

Marco choked on her words, and then smoothly replied, “Given the Late hour, I asked a chef to prepare it immediately. However, the restaurant’s ingredients were nearly depleted, so substitutions were made. I assure you, though, these dishes are both healthy and delectable, perfect for a patient in need of nutrition.”

Having once cooked a “nutritious meal“ for him, Loraine could tell these dishes were thoughtfully prepared and not meant for retaliation.

Realizing Marco had genuinely considered her needs, Loraine’s emotions churned. She also found herself surprised. When had Marco become so considerate and attentive?

Noticing her hand still connected to the IV with a small amount of fluid remaining, Marco offered, “You haven’t finished your infusion yet, so it may be inconvenient for you to eat. Tell me what you want, and I’ll feed you.”

Loraine’s initial reaction was to refuse, but the enticing aroma of the food overwhelmed her senses, stirring the hunger that had been building in her stomach. Her stomach grumbled in agreement,

pleading for food.

Though Loraine tried to resist, her gaze involuntarily roamed over the extensive array of food, eventually settling on the chicken porridge.

The porridge was flawlessly prepared, its creamy white base garnished with tender yellow chicken strips. The sprinkle of spring onions and a hint of ginger enhanced the flavor, a medley of freshness and aroma that filled her nostrils. The prospect of a warm, gratifying spoonful of porridge was too enticing to resist…

Noticing her hesitation, Marco smiled affectionately. Without waiting for her response, he scooped up a spoonful and held it to Loraine’s

Lips.

The unusual touch of gentleness in his smile left Loraine feeling even more unresistable.

Exhausted as she was, Loraine had no energy to evade the tempting porridge that was brought to her lips. Instinctively, she opened her mouth and tasted it.

Angela’s Library

Instantly, her taste buds were gratified, and she heard Marco’s low, encouraging voice, “Good girl, now swallow.”

Unconsciously, Loraine swallowed, sighing with satisfaction. Then she abruptly came to her senses— what was she allowing Marco to do?

How was it that his smile could so effortlessly enchant her into compliance, making it seem as if she would do whatever he asked of her?

Now alert again, Loraine became irritated and snapped, “Who asked you to feed me? Do you think I’m a child?”

Marco chuckled and responded in a soft voice, “No, of course not.”

Despite his words, his hand didn’t cease its movement as he scooped another spoonful of porridge and presented it to her

He was clearly treating her like a child

Annoyed, Loraine pursed her lips, refusing to eat. Marco patiently coaxed, “Once you’ve eaten and the drip is nearly finished, you can go if you wish. I promise not to bother you again.”