Chapter 542

Throwing Up Again

"What's wrong with Master?" Finn whispered.

Ethan pressed a finger to his lips, adjusting Vivian's weight on his back.

Finn tiptoed after them, muttering, "Did you knock her out?"

"She's drunk," Ethan replied in a hushed tone.

Finn's eyes widened. His master had always been able to hold her liquor—how could she be drunk tonight?

Ethan carefully laid Vivian on the bed before heading to the bathroom for a warm towel.

His fingers lingered on her furrowed brow as he gently wiped her face.

From the doorway, Finn watched Ethan's focused profile. The man's usually sharp gaze was now filled with tenderness.

In the kitchen, Ethan frowned at his phone screen. He pulled out a bag of rice and began washing it, following the online instructions.

Once the water boiled, he added the rice, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.

The rich aroma of congee soon filled the air. He had someone deliver light side dishes to accompany it.

At 2 AM, Vivian woke with a churning stomach.

She staggered downstairs, leaning against the wall, drawn by the savory scent.

"Finn?" she croaked.

Ethan peered out from the kitchen. "Awake?"

Vivian froze. "Why are you still here?"

"Made congee." He wiped his hands. "Want some?"

She eyed him suspiciously. "Did you poison it?"

Without a word, Ethan served two bowls, tasting every dish first.

Vivian scooped a spoonful—perfectly warm. When she picked up a shrimp, Ethan immediately peeled it for her.

The moment the shrimp touched her tongue, Vivian's face contorted.

She clapped a hand over her mouth, rushing to the bathroom to retch.

Ethan followed, rubbing her back. "Let's get you to the hospital."

"The shrimp was bad," Vivian rasped after rinsing her mouth, her face pale.

Ethan sampled the remaining shrimp. "It's fresh."

Vivian managed half a bowl before pushing it away. Ethan's brow furrowed at her pallor.

"I'm fine." She waved him off. "Go home—Theo's alone."

Ethan hesitated, but ultimately left after a few parting instructions.