Elliot gritted his teeth and gazed coldly at her.

He placed the bowl of oatmeal down and helped her up. Then he arranged two pillows behind her for her to lean against.

He then stuffed the bowl back into her hands.

Avery accepted the oatmeal, but, as she was about to pick the spoon up, her left hand suddenly fell limp and powerless. Her hands shook, tipping the bowl onto the covers.

Everything spilled.

Avery looked at the spilled oatmeal in shock. She pursed her lips.

Elliot's heart broke at the sight. She had not done it on purpose. He knew that she did not do it on purpose. Avery truly wanted to eat on her own, but she lacked the strength needed to even hold a bowl.

Before Avery's tears could fall, Elliot bundled the dirty covers away.

"Avery, you'll get better. Don't cry!" He had intended to comfort her, but what came out sounded more like a stern lecture.

He took a deep breath, wanting to explain, but Avery had already laid back down with her back turned toward him.

Ell