Amaris paused, taken aback for a moment.
Then, without missing a beat, she smiled, scooping up a spoonful and bringing it to my lips.
“You’re as stubborn as a mule. Why fight with me over this? Just drink it. Silas will be here soon.”
She tried to feign concern, but her eyes remained fixed on my face as though appraising the value of something precious.
I took stock of my condition, silently weighing my options. Now wasn’t the time to rise against them.
After all, the debts from my past life would slowly but surely be paid in full.
Forcing back the wave of nausea, I opened my mouth and let the bitter concoction slide down my throat.
It was unbearable, far worse than anything I had ever tasted in my past life.
Just then, footsteps echoed outside. Amaris turned eagerly toward the door, only to quickly remember something. She glanced back at me, trying to reassure me with a forced smile.
"Stop being so stubborn. Silas agreeing to help us is already a great favor."
She wore a pitiful expression as though on the verge of tears.
"Do you really think I want to bring an outsider into our home?"
I couldn't stomach her act any longer. I simply closed my eyes.