SYZYGY:The raise of the Monarch

XLVII

The room remained enveloped in darkness as all the curtains were drawn shut, yet the evening sun cast an orange glow, indicating the time. 

Eva lay snugly under a blanket, positioned on her right side, her hair covered with a small towel. The scent of Ogen lingered strongly. As she attempted to shift to her other side, a sharp pain seized her, akin to physical torture. Her limbs felt paralyzed, and her lower half was numb. Despite trying to call out for Ogen, no words escaped her mouth; she felt utterly drained.

'I fled from the Tsar's brutal torture of the spies, only to return to it willingly,' she thought, mustering her energy to move, just as she heard Ogen's footsteps. 

He entered the room carrying a sizable plate, which he placed on the small table next to the bed before walking over to face Eva.

"You're finally awake?" he smiled, observing the miserable state he made her look like, while he was radiating a beauty that surpassed any previous moment. 

As she caught sight of his warm smile, she momentarily forgot her anger. Ogen sat on the bed beside her, helping her sit up. As he assisted her, she groaned like an elderly woman suffering from a severe backache. He gently placed her head on his chest and began caressing her head and arms.

"What would you like for lunch?" he inquired.

She attempted to respond, but her dry throat hindered her, and she could only manage a cough. Observing the sorry state he had caused, Ogen felt guilty as hell. He gently lowered her back down and hurried to pour her a cup of water. Taking on a caretaker's role, he helped her drink as if tending to a toddler. Once she was sufficiently hydrated, she finally spoke.

"I can eat anything, as long as it's not too dry."

Ogen nodded and quickly left the room. Eva glanced at the substantial plate on the side table, featuring tomato soup, bread, pancakes, apple pie, juice, and warm milk. Although her stomach grumbled, she lacked the strength to move her legs or do anything else, so she patiently awaited Ogen's return. Moments later, he came back holding another plate, wearing a cheerful expression.

"Well then, let's eat!"

Eva observed as he pulled in another table, placing a different assortment of food on it. He then arranged numerous pillows, creating a makeshift sofa on the bed. Once done, he approached Eva, gently lifted her, and positioned her comfortably on it, placing a blanket over her legs and sitting beside her.

"How is it? Does it feel uncomfortable?" he inquired.

Eva shook her head, smiling at him. "It feels perfect."

"Great! What do you want to eat first?"

Eva surveyed the plates, attempting to choose, but everything looked appetizing.

"Is that a beef pie?" she inquired.

"Yes, shall I slice it?" Ogen responded.

She nodded, and he proceeded to cut the pie into small, perfect cubes. Taking an empty plate, he arranged the cubes and then, with a fork, picked up one and directed it toward her mouth. Eva, growing accustomed to having things done for her, didn't object; in fact, there were moments when she even wished for him to chew her food. As he ensured she ate well, he, in turn, took a bite.