As he spoke, Julian took Scarlett's bowl, tossed out the cooled rice, and scooped her a fresh, steaming portion.
"That was getting cold. It's bad for your stomach. Eat while it's hot, and make sure you eat a lot."
Watching this, Elara and Jacqueline exchanged a look, both of their eyes sparkling with a subtle, knowing amusement.
Elara dramatically sighed, feigning sorrow.
"Ah, they grow up and forget their mothers. My food is cold too, but I don't see anyone getting me a fresh bowl."
Julian immediately reached for his mother's plate.
"Mom, don't be like that. Scarlett is recovering from an illness. Here, I'll get both you and Jacqueline a fresh plate."
Elara blocked his hand.
"Oh, we don't need that. We're not so old that we need to be waited on hand and foot. Just focus on taking care of Scarlett."
Jacqueline laughed in agreement and stood up, subtly tugging on Elara's arm.
"Exactly. Honestly, this food isn't as good cold anyway. Elara, why don't I treat you to a nice hot meal downstairs?"
"Oh, perfect! I'd love that. Let's go!"
Elara caught the hint instantly. The two mothers hurriedly excused themselves and slipped out of the room.
Suddenly, Julian and Scarlett were the only two left in the suite. The atmosphere instantly shifted, laced with a faint, unspoken tension.
Julian grabbed a fresh bowl, ladled some hot soup into it, and naturally brought a spoonful toward Scarlett's lips.
"The temperature on this is perfect now. Try some."
Scarlett was caught off guard by the intimate gesture. She instinctively pressed her lips together and leaned back.


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