The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 2006

"Surgery is the absolute last resort," Charlotte said coldly, handing him a glass of warm water and a white pill. "You know exactly what happens if the procedure fails."

Roger stared down at his swollen, bruised hand. "Don't tell Stella," he said quietly.

Charlotte gave him a long, measuring look before turning away. "She hasn't eaten yet. Take this up to her." She handed him the tray. "Her mood has stabilized a bit, but you need to be extremely careful. Do not touch her."

"I will." Roger took the tray and headed up the stairs.

In the bedroom, Stella was curled up on the rug, hugging the sunflower balloon to her chest. Her eyes were dull and unfocused.

A soft knock broke the silence, and the door clicked open. Stella turned her head and saw Roger standing there in a casual sweater, looking just as emotionally shattered as she felt. It had only been a week since they last saw each other, but it felt like a lifetime.

Roger hovered in the doorway, his dark eyes locked onto her with a desperate intensity. "Can I come in?" he asked gently.

Stella stared at him, her body completely rigid. She clutched the balloon tighter, her nerves vibrating with panic.

"Don't be scared. I'm just..." Roger's voice broke slightly as he stepped inside. "I brought you some food."

At his approach, Stella flinched violently. The balloon slipped from her grasp and drifted toward the ceiling.

"I'll get it." Roger quickly set the tray down, caught the string, and tied it to the chair beside her.

Just as Roger thought she was going to refuse, Stella's trembling hand reached out. She picked up the spoon and took a tiny bite. She only ate the fish he had prepared for her. When she finished, she dropped her head, staring blankly at the white rice.

Understanding what she wanted, Roger slowly closed the distance. He sat quietly across from her, carefully removing the bones from another piece of fish and placing it in her bowl. Neither of them spoke, but they fell into a quiet rhythm until the plate was empty.

Knowing better than to push his luck, Roger packed up the dishes. He slid a piece of candy across the table toward her. "I'll be right outside. I won't go far," he said softly. If he stayed too long, she might panic again.

He stepped out and pulled the door shut.

Alone in the room, Stella looked at the closed door. She picked up the piece of candy, gripping it so tightly her knuckles turned white, and pressed her fist against her heart.