MPO

CHAPTER LV-56

“…Thank you.”

“The steak sauce is made with apple wine, so it’s tangy and sweet. It’s another specialty of our chef, so give it a try.”

As he spoke softly, the sound of cutting was heard. Although something was being cut, there was no loud noise. Even without seeing it, it seemed he was eating very elegantly.

Leila, getting up from the cozy bed, meeting the physician who looked after her health, and eating warm and delicious food without worrying about others, felt a pang of heartache.

For him, it must be a normal routine, but for her, it was nothing short of a blessing.

Of course, she knew she should be grateful to him. But Leila couldn’t simply accept it joyfully. Each time she received his care, joy and self-reproach came together.

She was just someone who didn’t deserve such trivial things, so why was he treating her so kindly? She had learned in life that it’s impossible to be kind to others without expecting anything in return.

However, she put aside her uncomfortable feelings and enjoyed the steak. Eating a regular meal for the first time in years felt incredibly serene.

* * *

“Will you play the violin for me?”

After finishing her meal and taking all the medicine brought by the physician, Leila was led away by the maids, washed, and brought back out. The dress prepared for her was very comfortable, perfect for wearing indoors.

While she was leisurely spending time drinking a refreshing cold tea, Lucas approached her and spoke.

“Yes, of course.”

Since he liked her playing, she wanted to repay his kindness in any way she could. Although she wasn’t sure if playing the violin could repay saving her life, she was happy to find something she could do for him.

“Given your reaction, it seems you wanted to play.”

Leila smiled softly at his words and placed her hand on the violin case. Although she didn’t particularly feel like playing since her body hadn’t fully recovered, it was awkward for her to deny the words of others who judged her. Every time, she just smiled like this, and it usually passed smoothly.

She fumbled to take out the violin and stood up to start playing immediately. Lucas burst into laughter.

“It seems you were indeed teasing me earlier.”

Leila was playing the tunes he had hummed during their meal. It might seem like teasing, but it didn’t feel bad. Unlike others, she didn’t force him to wear a mask.

“Your violin playing is always pleasant to hear. It has a fresh charm.”

She continued playing, listening to his appreciative voice. His relaxed and soothing voice alone made her feel that he genuinely enjoyed her performance.

She reached the climax, finished the piece, and then vigorously started a new one. She played the violin in a state of utter immersion, when suddenly, she felt a presence behind her.

Lucas carefully placed his hand on her shoulder and gently massaged it as he spoke.

“I’d love to listen more, but I’ve neglected my duties for a while, and Philip has been pestering me about it lately. I need to get back to work, so please rest comfortably.”