By the time Alexander finished tending to Evelyn's burn, the chicken soup had cooled to a warm temperature.
"Alright, time for the soup. If it gets any colder, it won't taste as good. It's best enjoyed warm," she said.
Evelyn set the ointment aside and used her uninjured hand to pick up the bowl, offering it to him.
"Here, drink up," she urged.
Alexander raised an eyebrow as he took the bowl with his single functional hand.
He held it but made no move to drink.
Evelyn suddenly understood and let out a soft laugh. "Oh, of course. I forgot about your injury. You can't manage the spoon with one hand."
She paused, her voice softening with amusement. "It's almost funny, isn't it? My hand is burned, and your arm is injured. In a way, we're both incapacitated."
Alexander's gaze was warm as it rested on her. "It just proves we're perfectly matched."
Evelyn blinked, surprised. She had meant it as a casual remark, but he had taken it romantically.
Lately, his mind always seemed to drift in that direction.
"Alright then," Evelyn said, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. Her tone turned playful. "I'll hold the bowl for you, and you can use the spoon."
But Alexander gently pulled the bowl back, out of her reach.
She looked at him, confused. "You can't drink it like that."
He nodded, his expression utterly serious. "That's your cue. You should feed me."
Evelyn couldn't suppress a laugh, teasing him. "I could just hold the bowl steady for you."
"Not a chance." His face remained grave, as if discussing a critical business matter. "The bowl is too heavy. The spoon is much lighter."
What utter nonsense!
Despite the absurdity, a wave of affection washed over Evelyn.
She had been right earlier.
Alexander was being incredibly childish!
She let out a playful sigh. "Fine. Since you're the patient, I'll indulge you this once. Consider it a granted wish."
A grin spread across Alexander's face. "Thank you, darling, for your generosity. I am truly honored."
His words made her smile, and she found herself happy to oblige.
Evelyn picked up the spoon, carefully scooping a portion of the rich broth.
The savory scent filled the space between them, a light steam rising from the spoon.
She brought it close, blowing on it gently before carefully guiding it to his lips. "Careful, it's still warm."
She was focused entirely on the task, ensuring she didn't spill a drop or burn him.
Alexander, however, wasn't watching the spoon. His gaze was fixed intently on her face, completely captivated.
His attention was far from the soup.
Fortunately, Evelyn was too concentrated to notice his dazed expression. After he had taken a few sips, she asked nervously, "How is it?"
Startled from his reverie, Alexander quickly replied, "Incredible. The flavor is deep and rich, perfectly seasoned, not greasy at all. Honestly, it's the best chicken soup I've ever tasted."