Antonio's POV

"You haven't eaten anything for over seventeen hours now, Antonio. Please, you're still recovering from your injuries; they won't be able to heal properly if you don't eat."

Loretta placed a plate in front of me that, in the past, would have made my stomach jerk with anticipation. It was a juicy steak smothered in oil and seasoning, paired with asparagus. She had used her secret recipe for this, taking out her A-game to make sure I ate. I felt my appetite rise and then quickly dissolve before I could even pick up my fork and knife. I pushed the food ahead, the plate scraping against the table,...