Daniel turned toward the door, a flicker of panic flashing in his eyes as the sharp knock echoed through the room.
Before him, lay Tressa motionlessly on the bed, her gaze drifting slowly toward the door.
*Knock-Knock*
"Young man, can open the door," a familiar feminine voice called from the other side.
Hearing Esmeralda's warm tone, Daniel paused for a heartbeat. A slow smile curved his lips.
He reached for a towel from the wardrobe, wrapping it low around his waist with a quick twist, then turned the knob with a soft click.
"Yes, Lady Esma?" he said with a neutral expression.
Esmeralda extended the clay pot with a gentle smile. "I made something special for you, hope you'll enjoy."
He lifted the clay lid, inhaling the rich aroma of the dish. It was chicken curry, simmered with fragrant spices.
Daniel murmured a compliment, and she smiled warmly — but her eyes drifted sideways to Tressa, half-naked on the bed in her line of sight.
