Chapter 22

She turned her head, her eyes wide with shock as she looked at Eric, who was calmly sitting beside her, holding a fruit platter. "W-what... a bath?! Y-you want to help me take one?" Stella stammered, her words tripping over each other in surprise. “Of course,” Eric replied nonchalantly, picking up a piece of fruit and holding it to her lips. “There aren’t any nurses here to help you, just the two of us. I’ll have to humble myself and help you with the bath.” His tone remained serious as he added, “Is that a problem?” “I... I don’t want to!” Stella quickly protested, her words tumbling out. “I... I have wounds! I can’t get them wet!” Eric’s gaze lowered to her soft lips as he continued, still calm and composed. “I’ll wipe you down. No water. If I don’t, the bacteria could cause an infection in your wounds. Come on, Stella, don’t be stubborn. You need to understand something: tonight, not only will I help you bathe, but I’ll also sleep next to you.” Stella almost chok