Chapter 28: The Hard No

The sun had begun to set when Camden returned from her shower, and she felt a surge of gratitude upon seeing clean pajamas laid out for her on the bed. A steaming cup of hot chocolate sat on the side table beside them. Clayton, finishing up the dishes in the sink, explained, "I wasn't sure if you would want to eat. I know you were nauseous earlier, so I didn't know if I should make you something. Are you hungry?" he asked with genuine concern. Overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness, Camden's eyes welled up with tears. "You're so thoughtful," she said, her voice trembling, "thank you." Clayton wrapped an arm around her, offering comfort. "Come on, why don't you get dressed. I just need to check something outside," he lied, thinking she may want some privacy in the small cabin. She knew he was lying, but she appreciated the considerate gesture, and nodded tearfully. "Think about what you want to eat in the meantime," he suggested as he stepped out of the cabin. Upon Clayton's return, Camden s