Chapter 1321

Slowing down, Anastasia chewed her food thoroughly, savoring unfamiliar flavors. It was marvelous.

After lunch, Lily prepared a glass of prune juice and placed it on the table. "Drink it slowly."

Anastasia frowned, inhaling its mild scent. "Can I?"

"Don't you trust me?" Lily asked.

Anastasia nodded. Her trust in Lily had led her to accept treatment and enjoy this wonderful lunch.

"I haven't felt like this in a long time," Anastasia said, a mix of emotions evident. Food, once an enemy, was now a welcome source of nourishment. Everything felt perfect. She took a small sip of the prune juice, its sweetness spreading across her tongue.

Closing her eyes, she smiled, imagining playful plums dancing on her palate.

A maid entered and bowed to Lily. "Ma'am, a Mr. Fike wishes to see you."

Lily frowned, thinking of the pedantic, arrogant man. "I'm not seeing him. Tell him to leave."

Lily's impatient tone, a departure from her usual gentle demeanor, caused Anastasia to open her eyes. The maid promptly departed.

Anastasia asked curiously, "Lily, who's Mr. Fike? Do you dislike him?"

"A bit," Lily admitted.

As she finished speaking, the maid returned. Lily asked knowingly, "He's not leaving, is he?"

"No, ma'am. There's a Mrs. Moore who claims to be Ms. Rollins' aunt. She says she wishes to see Ms. Rollins on an important matter," the maid said, glancing at Anastasia.

"My aunt?" Anastasia was surprised. "Why is she here?"

Lily, sensing Anastasia's genuine surprise, considered the situation. "Would you like to see her?"

Anastasia hesitated. "My aunt often visits and brings gifts. She gave me the agarwood I sent you. However, I have no idea why she'd seek me here."

Understanding, Lily gestured. "Let her in, then."

Lily considered. "Does your aunt know about fragrances?"

Anastasia shook her head. "My aunt knows nothing about perfumery; only perfumes and essential oils." Before Lily could continue, a man followed a well-dressed middle-aged woman into the room. Austin, slightly raising his chin, glanced at Lily and offered a mirthless smile. "We meet again, Lily Christian."