Chapter 918

Chapter 918:
“Mr. Briggs, these were just brought in from the orchard. The doctor said they’re great for recovery!”
She beamed brightly, holding the tray in front of her like an offering. William glanced up from his book, his gaze falling briefly on Lena’s eager, plain face.
“Did Stel ask you to bring these?”
Lena froze. “No… it was my idea,” she admitted in a small voice.
“No thanks. I’m not really into fruit. Take it away—and next time, don’t make that kind of decision for me.”
The moment William realized the fruit platter wasn’t Stella’s idea, he shut it down without hesitation, brushing off Lena’s efforts completely.
Lena stood frozen, caught off guard. Seriously? Not even fruit? Was he only eating what Stella gave him?
“But Mr. Briggs, the doctor did say it would help.” Lena tried again, a little desperate now. She had put real effort into preparing it.
William’s face darkened just as Stella walked up behind Lena.
When Stella caught sight of the platter, her eyes lit up. “Whoa, this looks great! So many different fruits. Did you put this together, Lena?”
Lena quickly gathered herself and smiled, voice soft and sweet. “Yeah, Stella. Want some?”
Stella took the platter and looked toward William, who was still sitting up in bed. “You should eat a bit. It looks fresh.”
Lena watched closely, hopeful. She honestly wanted William to take it—but at the same time, maybe she kind of hoped he’d say no again. That way, it wouldn’t feel so personal.
But to her surprise, William—who had just flat-out refused—nodded at Stella. “Alright.”
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Just one word, but it hit Lena like a slap. She swayed a little where she stood.
Stella didn’t notice. She turned back at the sound of Lena’s footsteps. “Anything else?”
Lena shook her head quickly, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “No… nothing. I’m heading to my room. Goodnight, Stella!”
She disappeared fast. Stella stared after her, something not sitting right.
Turning to William, she gave him a look. “Did you tick her off again?”
William held up both hands. “Hey, I didn’t do anything!”
And really, he hadn’t. He hadn’t wanted the fruit—until Stella said something. How was that his fault?
Stella sat on the edge of the bed and handed him the fruit platter. “You better not have.”
She paused, then added, “Lena’s been through a lot, you know. Her ex messed her up bad. She’s broke, barely hanging on. I know you’re not thrilled about her staying here, but don’t stress—it’s only temporary.”
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