Chapter: 201

Whatever task she undertook, she excelled at it, whether it was studying or competing. No matter where she was, she radiated confidence.

Even the simplest chores took on a warm and inviting atmosphere because of her gentle and calm presence.

Alicia had never had anyone oversee her before. She looked up and asked, “Are you hungry?"

The softness in Caden's gaze diminished slightly. "I just want to remind you that I have OCD. I can't have even a tiny piece of shell around."

She found herself speechless.

Then, he walked closer to the table and pointed at the peeled shrimps.

"Do you see that? It's a shell," he complained. "Do it again."

"Caden, what the hell is the matter with you?" asked Alicia.

Caden took advantage of being the sick and pushed his luck. "Shells really ruin my appetite."

Alicia countered, “I could poke you in the eyes. If you can't see, it won't bother you."

Not long after, a bubbling noise emerged from the kitchen.

The pear soup was boiling.

Alicia reduced the heat and lifted the lid to take a look.

A lot of water had evaporated, so she realized she needed to add more.

Caden loomed over her, making it hard to ignore him. "What are you making?"

The sweet and calmly refreshing scent of the pear broth filled the air.

Alicia replied, “Take a look for yourself."

Caden understood it had properties that could help soothe a cough.

He smiled but chose not to press the matter further.

Alicia fetched some water, and then an idea struck her, and she paused. In one swift motion, she gulped the water down.

Concealing the disposable cup behind her, she said to Caden, "Keep an eye on the stove for me. I need to grab something.”

Caden noticed her subtle move.

"Sure."

Once Alicia was confident Caden wasn't watching, she quietly slipped into the bathroom.

She lifted the toilet lid and filled a disposable cup with water.

As she stared at the clear liquid, a mischievous grin spread across her face.

"You're always so picky about food, and constantly criticizing everything, huh? Enjoy this toilet surprise. Maybe it will improve your appetite and make you more willing to eat anything," she thought.

Alicia discreetly concealed the cup and made her way to the bathroom door.

She then glanced toward the kitchen.

Caden was nowhere in sight.