Chapter 648

The bitter saltiness of wild greens spread across Alexander's tongue.

His brow furrowed slightly as he forced himself to swallow.

"Are you okay?" Evelyn handed him a glass of warm water.

He took it, his Adam's apple bobbing. "I'm fine."

"Don't push yourself. It's normal if the local food doesn't suit your palate."

"I can adapt."

Evelyn looked up at him. "You're really staying?"

"You managed two weeks here. Why can't I?"

"I grew up with hardships. This is nothing to me. But you—"

"I told you," Alexander interrupted, "I want to understand your world."

Evelyn sighed softly.

He picked up a portion of wild greens and placed them in her bowl. "Try this."

Steam rose from the rustic pot, surrounded by an array of foraged dishes—cold bitter greens, boiled dandelions, fried broomweed... A humble yet heartfelt welcome feast prepared by Elder Thompson.

"These are shepherd's purse dumplings," the elder said, pointing to the freshly steamed basket. "Fried in lard. I hope they're to your liking."

The villagers watched their reactions nervously.

Alexander lifted the coarse ceramic bowl, sipping the slightly astringent hot water. "These wild greens are rare in the city. Natural ingredients are the healthiest."

Only then did the villagers relax and take their seats.

Mrs. Thompson enthusiastically served them, piling their bowls high. Without serving chopsticks, she used her own.

Evelyn ate without hesitation. Alexander stared at the dandelion greens in his bowl, his brow twitching almost imperceptibly.

"How many times must I tell you?" Elder Thompson suddenly scolded his wife. "City folks have standards—you can't use your own chopsticks!"

The old woman froze, flustered.

Noticing the dandelions in Alexander's bowl, Evelyn took it and dumped them into her own. "I love wild greens. If he won't eat them, I will."

She swallowed the bitter leaves without flinching.

"I'll fetch clean chopsticks—" the old woman stammered, rising.

"No need," Alexander stopped her. "I was just curious what this herb was. The flavor is... unique."

"It's dandelion," the woman said, relieved. "Dr. Carter knows—it's medicinal."

Evelyn nodded. "Clears heat and toxins. I like it."

As soon as she spoke, Alexander poured all the dandelion back into his bowl and ate it in large bites.

Evelyn's chest tightened.

"Perfect. I've been feeling feverish lately," he said, suppressing the bitterness.

Seeing his genuine acceptance, Elder Thompson relaxed and recommended another dish. "This is pickled toona. Harvested in spring. Give it a try."

This time the flavor was milder. Alexander ate with noticeably more ease.

Evelyn watched discreetly. To her surprise, he continued serving himself bite after bite, showing no sign of reluctance.

When the moon reached its zenith, Evelyn stood to leave. "There's a delivery case at the clinic. I need to take the night shift."

The elder tried to persuade her to stay but finally walked them to the gate. "Mr. Hamilton, your room is ready. Come back after seeing Dr. Carter off."

Alexander's stomach churned, but his expression remained neutral. "I—"

"We have matters to discuss," Evelyn interjected smoothly.