Juhyeon offered to help prepare the meal, but his offer was rejected.
“I think it would be best if you stayed here.”
“But I truly do nothing but eat the food you give me. I feel so ashamed…”
“If you wish to preserve the human species, remain still.”
“…Ah.”
“Precisely.”
Iser nodded, then entered the kitchen. Aria gently escorted the dumbfounded Juhyeon to the sofa and offered a brief explanation.
“Unless Teacher personally prepares and cooks it, a human will likely find it difficult to consume.”
“What would happen if I ate an ingredient that Mr. Gio had not prepared and cooked…?”
“You would become one with this Portrait. I imagine that is not what you desire, gentleman.”
“Would merely preparing the ingredients be a problem as well?”
“Regrettably, your body is extraordinarily frail. I suspect it would be difficult.”
Aria smiled.
“You appear determined to do some kind of work. In that case, why not set the table?”
“…Surely even I can place the utensils without causing a problem?”
“A task that insignificant will not alter you. You need not worry.”
“Thank you for that life-sustaining advice.”
“Think nothing of it.”
Aria nodded lightly and entered the kitchen as well. Watching her, Juhyeon rubbed his chest as a chill passed through it. Whether by incredible coincidence or through Gio’s consideration, Juhyeon had…