Chapter 1430
Anastasia remained until nightfall, as Lily wanted to monitor her body's response to the medication. The young woman had visited the restroom five times that afternoon. She experienced little stomach pain, though her abdomen rumbled and caused flatulence. Embarrassed, Anastasia repeatedly tried to leave, but Lily persuaded her to stay. Lily explained these were normal reactions and Anastasia needn't feel ashamed. Furthermore, Lily needed to observe Anastasia to ensure her well-being before adjusting the prescription.
Anastasia inquired about using the bean prescription from Austin, but Lily advised against it, fearing a conflict with her own medication. However, Lily conceded Anastasia could try it after completing her course. Fully trusting Lily, Anastasia abandoned the idea.
Stepping from the restroom for the final time, Anastasia felt drained and sweaty, as if she'd just bathed in hot water. Since the weather wasn't particularly warm, she attributed it to fatigue.
"Will I… get dehydrated?" she murmured, touching her stomach apprehensively. She recalled experiencing severe diarrhea and dehydration from dubious weight-loss medication, once requiring IV fluids and a doctor's reprimand. She was determined to avoid a repeat.
"No, your weakness and fluid retention are normal reactions," Lily said seriously. "Does your stomach hurt badly?"
Anastasia carefully checked for pain and shook her head. Unlike her previous experience, it was painless despite the intestinal rumbling.
"Then you'll be fine. Drink plenty of water and rest well at home. Avoid drinking before bed to prevent edema. Return tomorrow. After five days on the prescription, your symptoms should lessen considerably."
Lily had personally prepared the herbal remedy—selecting, cleaning, and brewing herbs from Dominic's garden. Five days of treatment, she believed, should eliminate the toxins. However, feeling insecure at home and lacking a confidante, she withheld this detail, presenting it simply as a health tonic. “Once Anastasia detoxifies after five days, she'll only need to follow my diet plan. I can then go to Burnwken without worry.” She'd received no news from Alexander in two days and was increasingly anxious. However, pressing matters demanded her attention before she could find peace of mind and travel.
After seeing Anastasia off, Lily cleaned up and went upstairs. She found her son asleep; Daisy was tucking him in. The nanny gently adjusted his hands and settled the blanket around him.
"Ma'am…" Daisy began, but Lily silenced her with a gesture.
Lily smoothed the blanket, straightened up, and walked to the doorway. Looking back, she switched off the light but left the door ajar. Daisy and Galen shared a room; he slept in a larger bed, she in a smaller one beside it. This arrangement facilitated Daisy's care and eased Galen's potential nighttime fears.
However, Lily now felt a pang of apprehension. Daisy's background remained a mystery, yet she'd allowed her such proximity to her son. Though the woman hadn't harmed him, no one could guarantee her future actions.