As they pulled apart, Alexander pecked her lips several more times. "Wait for me!"

"I will," Lily replied, helping him adjust his collar and patting his pocket lightly. "Take care of yourself. I heard it's quite chaotic there."

"Okay." Alexander hesitated, wanting to reassure her that the factory had been there for years. But Burnwken was chaotic, with few Hyderlanders. He was only going to check the factory and the hospital, and would likely return immediately afterward. There was no need for worry. Still, her concern was heartwarming, so he simply nodded. "I really need to go now!"

Reluctant as he was—they had never been apart since they'd become a couple—he would miss his flight if he didn't leave.

Anastasia returned home, a grin splitting her face. She hadn't felt this happy in ages. Her heart felt whole, free from the constant hunger and self-recrimination. She felt lighter, almost buoyant.

Though Lily couldn't promise weight loss, Anastasia believed it would be an inevitable result of following Lily's advice. After all, controlling her diet was linked to weight loss, wasn't it? Even if Lily disagreed, Anastasia remained optimistic. That optimism, however, plummeted the moment she entered the house. "Aunt Marie," she called, pursing her lips. "What are you doing here again?"

Marie, seated in the living room, snacking, looked up and waved. "You're finally back. What took you so long? I've been waiting ages."

"Was it something important?" Anastasia asked, entering reluctantly. She felt she'd arrived home too soon.

"Of course!" Maria exclaimed, clapping her hands. She put down her snacks, rose, and approached. "Remember the miracle doctor I told you about two days ago? How could you forget something so important?"

Oh, not this again, Anastasia thought. She wouldn't have minded before, when she'd given up on herself. But now, with renewed hope, and knowing Lily disliked this "miracle doctor," she had no intention of seeing him.

"Oh, you mean that charlatan?" Anastasia feigned consideration before flatly stating, "I don't think I need to see him."

"Charlatan? He's a legitimate miracle doctor!" Maria retorted defensively. "Look, I understand. You don't get out much. Mr. Austin is Mr. Dominic's apprentice—Mr. Dominic, the herbal medicine god! Mr. Austin is his most prized, secret apprentice! People are lining up to see him! You have no idea how much effort I put into arranging this appointment. You're lucky they haven't held a grudge against you for what happened back then. You can't call Mr. Austin a charlatan to his face!"

Tired of her aunt's relentless advocacy, Anastasia ignored her, walking to the kitchen and pouring herself a glass of water. Lily had mentioned that water boosted metabolism; she needed to drink more and cut out sugary drinks.