Rachel hesitated as she looked at the pill in Stella's hand. Was it really wise to take medicine when she wasn't even sick? What if it harmed her instead?
Noticing Rachel's reluctance to accept the pill, Jasper's mind, not often known for its sharpness, sparked with an idea.
"Stella," he began, "you claim this is a life-saving pill. But what if it's something harmful? Wouldn't that just make Rachel worse?"
He turned to Stella with a challenging gaze. "Why don't you take one first? If it's safe, then Rachel can have it."
Stella scoffed and withdrew the pill. "Are we really in the age of poison testing? This is a lawful society; poisoning someone is illegal. Do you really think I'd poison her right in front of you?"
"If she has any adverse reaction, a hospital visit would reveal everything. Do you think I could just flee?"
"If you don't trust me, you can have the pill tested at the hospital."
"Do you take me for Rachel's servant, to test the pill for her? Who do you think you're insulting? Take the pill or leave it!"
"If Ms. Pearce's condition worsens because of your own suspicions, don't blame us for the consequences!"
Jasper had only meant to make a casual remark; he hadn't expected Stella to react so angrily. The thought that his words could jeopardize Rachel's recovery weighed on him. He certainly didn't want that responsibility.
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