Chapter 1317

"Well, you must leave home occasionally," Lily smiled. "Try the tea."

Anastasia hesitantly took a small sip. She paused, licked her lips thoughtfully, and took another sip. "It's sweet?" She looked horrified, as if she'd committed a transgression. She immediately set down the cup, spilling some tea. "Did you add sugar? Why are you doing this to me?"

Lily observed her silently, then said slowly, "I didn't add sugar. The sweetness comes from the tea leaves."

"How is that possible? How can tea be sweet by itself? Besides, I can't have anything sweet!" Anxious, Anastasia clutched her neck, stifling a rising wave of nausea.

Lily poured herself a cup and, after calmly sipping, explained, "This is ginseng oolong tea. It's naturally sweet, and it can lower blood pressure and lipid levels. It's good for you."

Anastasia's eyes brightened. "Is that true?"

"You've been so kind to me, giving me agarwood and lilies of the valley. What do I gain from deceiving you?" Lily wiped up the spilled tea and refilled Anastasia's cup. "Have some more."

Anastasia, reassured, finished the tea in two quick swallows. "It's delicious!" She reached for the teapot. "I'd like more."

Lily gently removed the teapot. "No."

"Why?" Anastasia protested. "Didn't you say I could drink this, and it's good for me?"

"It is good for you, but moderation is key. Overindulgence is as harmful as deprivation." Lily met Anastasia's questioning gaze and poured another cup. "Drink slowly, savor it. Remember what I told you about enjoying your food."

This time, Anastasia sipped the tea slowly. "It's sweet and mellow. What an exquisite tea. I've never tasted anything like it."

"Not only have you never had this tea, but you've avoided other drinks, haven't you? You barely even drink water."

Anastasia opened her mouth to speak, then hesitated. Tears welled in her eyes. "L-Lily, can you save me?" she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Her pleading expression was heartbreaking.

"Don't say it like that," Lily said, feeling awkward under the weight of the young woman's desperate plea, though she wanted to help.

"I mean it!" Anastasia, fearing Lily's reluctance, grasped her arm. "I know it sounds foolish. I've seen so many doctors, and I feel like I should give up. But… I feel like you can save me!"