Elaine set the plate of desserts down beside the bed with unusual care, as if the little pastries were made of glass and might shatter if she breathed too hard.
I was already reaching for one before she had even stepped back, and the first bite filled my mouth with sweet cream and honeyed fruit, warm enough to loosen the tightness in my shoulders before I could stop myself.
There were tiny tartlets with glazed berries on top, soft sponge cakes dusted in sugar, and a slice of almond pastry that tasted rich and buttery on my tongue.
I ate too quickly, almost ravenous from the long stretch of healing and boredom, and only after a few bites did... I slow down and give her a suspicious look.
"Where did you find these from?"
Her eyes stayed on me for a second before she answered. "I found them from the chefs. You like them, right?"
I brushed a crumb from the corner of my mouth with the back of my hand and gave a small, reluctant nod. "Yes. I do like them."
