Chapter 1243

A slight sweetness lingered on her tongue. This blueberry mousse, less sweet than the cakes she'd had previously, tasted subtly of yogurt—the sugar content was remarkably low. Yet, it was delicious, a welcome treat after such a long time without dessert. The first spoonful seemed to awaken her appetite, and she instinctively reached for another.

Lily intervened just as Anastasia was about to take a bite. "Wait a minute!"

"What's wrong?" Anastasia asked, her eyes registering both puzzlement and a touch of annoyance. She would be furious if Lily interrupted her now.

"You can have it," Lily said, "but promise me you'll eat it slowly. Enjoy the taste, feel each bite, savor the flavors."

Anastasia had never been taught this. Her past experiences with food had been extreme—either lavish indulgence or strict deprivation, rushed meals or forbidden delicacies. No one had ever suggested she savor her food.

However, heeding Lily's advice, she took small bites. The yogurt melted on her tongue. The texture and taste registered, sending a wave of pleasant sensation through her.

She ate, then stared at the remaining mousse in a daze.

"What's wrong?" Lily asked, noticing Anastasia's pause. "Is it not good?"

Anastasia shook her head, sighing. "I've never tasted food like this before. I've always viewed food as a temptation, a trap, an enemy. It would make me fat, a sign of gluttony, and then I'd be back to struggling. I…"

She paused, breathless, lowering her head and quietly setting down her fork.

"Food is a human need," Lily said gently, patting Anastasia's hand. "Your body needs nourishment. It's not your enemy."

Anastasia nodded, slowly finishing the mousse and wiping her mouth. When she looked up, her face glowed with contentment. She had never eaten so peacefully before; she usually ate rapidly, fearing the inevitable diet that followed. She had never truly tasted her food. This was the first time she had savored it. The yogurt's tartness and the blueberries' sweetness lingered, a novel and delightful sensation.

"Thank you!" she said, her gratitude heartfelt.

Though initially suspicious about the dress, Anastasia now understood Lily hadn't intended to embarrass her; the saleswoman at the boutique was the true culprit. With this understanding, Anastasia had no intention of letting the saleswoman escape unscathed.

Putting away the dress, Anastasia picked up the box. "Thank you for the dress. I like it very much. I'll return the favor someday, if I can."

"You don't have to," Lily smiled.

"All right," Anastasia said, rising. "I should go collect my dress. Excuse me."

Lily nodded politely, granting her leave.