His movements were unusually cautious.
As though he wasn't sure how I would react.
Only then did I notice the paper bag in his hand.
It looked familiar.
Alexander walked over to the bedside table and placed it down before carefully opening it.
A sweet scent immediately filled the room.
Inside was a small cake.
The same one I had asked for a few days ago.
He placed a plastic fork beside it before turning to me.
"I stopped by the bakery on the way here," he said quietly.
His voice was calm, but there was a hint of uncertainty beneath it.
"I thought you might like it."
He held the cake out to me.
For a brief moment, I stared at it.
Then I reached out and accepted it.
"Thank you."
The moment the words left my mouth, Alexander visibly froze.
His eyes widened slightly, as though he hadn't expected me to accept it.
Or perhaps he simply hadn't expected me to thank him.
A second later, he pulled out a chair and sat beside the bed.
