Chapter 38

Ethan shot her a sharp look, his voice cold. "There's still some in the cup. Drink it. All of it." Emma knew there was no point pushing back. She poured the rest of the chicken soup from the thermos into the bowl and downed it in one go, without hesitation. His gaze swept over her, calm but unreadable. "The meat too. Finish it." Fine. She got the message loud and clear—no room for negotiation. No more words, just action. Emma picked up the chunks of meat with her fingers and started eating. Watching her scarf it down like she hadn't eaten in days, Ethan suddenly paused. Did he go too far? He picked up a cup, poured water, and handed it to her. "Slow down. Don't choke." Emma ignored him, laser-focused on finishing the last bites. A few quick chews and it was done. Seeing the now spotless bowl, she lifted her head and locked eyes with Ethan. "There. Done. Can you leave now?" He didn't answer right away—just set his cup aside, quiet. "Yeah." Then he turned and walked out without a backwar