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Chapter 9: So She Can Smile?
The next morning, Sam's condition had improved, though the doctors insisted he stay in the hospital for further treatment.
For the first time in a long while, Pilea felt a deep sense of relief wash over her.
But even with that peace, one thing still troubled her—she couldn't figure out what was going on inside Androsen's mind.
It was Monday morning, and as usual, Pilea had her school uniform neatly prepared.
Now that her brother was safe and cared for, she felt less resistance toward staying in this place. She didn't care anymore what debt she owed Androsen—Sam's wellbeing was all that mattered.
After dressing up, she made her way to the dining room. The maids had already informed her that Androsen was waiting.
He sat at the head of the table, calm and composed like a king, his expression cold as always—but Pilea was getting used to it.
She took her seat quietly.
"Good morning," she murmured, barely above a whisper.
As usual, Androsen didn't respond. He only glanced at her before signaling one of the maids to bring in the food.
The aroma of the steaming dishes filled the room.
Pilea found herself watching him curiously until, to her surprise, he broke the silence.
"What is it?" he asked, disbelief flashing across his eyes as if he couldn't believe he was engaging in conversation.
Pilea blinked in surprise—had he actually replied? A small, proud smile appeared on her face.
"I'm going to visit my brother at the hospital today," she said softly. "I want to see how he's doing."
"Hm."
That was all he said.
Pilea nodded, satisfied with the permission, even if it was unspoken.
"Eat your food," he said, his tone calm yet commanding. "You should stay healthy."
She mumbled under her breath but obeyed, eating quietly.
Androsen watched her for a moment, his brows furrowing slightly, as if something was tugging at the back of his mind—then the thought vanished.
After breakfast, they both entered the car and set off for the hospital.
The building was large and modern, and as soon as they stepped out, the morning breeze brushed against Pilea's face. She inhaled deeply, feeling lighter than she had in days.
They walked inside together, Androsen silently trailing behind her.
When they reached Sam's room, Pilea's heart softened—he was awake, calm, and smiling faintly. It had been so long since she'd seen such peace on his face.
Androsen waited outside as Pilea entered.
"I brought lunch!" she announced with a bright smile.
Sam turned toward her, and his lips curved into a genuine smile that melted her heart.
"I brought porridge," she said cheerfully, opening the flask so he could smell the comforting aroma.
But as she handed it to him, a few drops of water fell onto her hand—tears.
Her brows knit together in concern. "What's wrong? Don't you like porridge?"
Sam shook his head weakly. "It's not that," he said, voice trembling.
"Then what is it?"
His lips quivered. "It's my fault… that you're treated so badly at school. And now I'm… begging a vampire for help. I'm useless!"
His voice cracked as tears streamed down his cheeks.
Pilea's eyes filled with emotion as she reached for his hand.
"Our parents… they were murdered by vampires," he whispered brokenly.
Pilea rose and pulled him into a warm embrace, gently patting his back to soothe him.
"Sam… none of this is your fault. Not one thing," she whispered. "You've been so brave."
Her words loosened the heavy weight in his heart, a pain he had carried alone for so long.
"No matter what happens, as long as we're together, we'll get through it," she said softly. "For both of us… I have to stay strong."
When she pulled away, she gave him a bright, comforting smile.
"Now… will you eat your porridge?"
Sam nodded, smiling faintly as he took the food. They chatted quietly as he ate, Pilea's heart swelling every time she saw him laugh or smile.
Outside the room, Androsen watched from the hallway. He had never seen her smile before. The sight startled him—she looked so radiant, almost glowing.
"So… she can smile too," he murmured to himself, strangely moved.
After a few minutes, he finally stepped forward.
"It's time," he said gently. "Let's go back."
Pilea turned slightly without meeting his gaze.
"I understand," she replied, giving Sam one last warm smile before waving goodbye.
As they walked out together, Androsen glanced at her.
"I thought you'd refuse to leave," he said quietly.
Pilea met his eyes briefly, then looked ahead.
"I've already thought it through," she replied calmly.
Androsen said nothing more, but something inside him shifted—a quiet curiosity, and a growing respect.
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