Vincent watched Marianne closely as she bustled around the kitchen, preparing a meal for him. It was clear that she felt a sense of obligation since she had nothing to offer him except a meal. When she finally set the plate in front of him and took a seat opposite, she smiled warmly, visibly pleased to see him.

"You look so happy to see me," Vincent remarked, taking a bite of the food she had prepared. There was a playful tone in his voice, and he couldn’t help but notice her genuine warmth.

Marianne’s smile broadened. "Of course, I’ve been wanting to thank you for a long time. But I...