Guard Dogs

"What is all this?" Xia Lihua's voice came out as a croak, her throat dry from sleep.

"Oh, good morning!" The nurse's cheerful tone was almost jarring. "It's time for breakfast. You should eat up; it's all freshly prepared."

Xia Lihua slowly swung her legs over the side of the bed, the soft rustling of the hospital gown against the bed sheets seeming louder in the quiet room. As she sat up straight, she glanced at the spread before her. The sight of the meticulously arranged dishes made her pause. 

The tray was laden with an array of dishes: delicate porridge garnished with fresh fruit, a steaming bowl of chicken soup with herbs floating on top, and an assortment of boiled vegetables that looked tender and inviting. The nurse's hands were busy arranging the dishes with meticulous care, placing cut fruits into neat sections.

Xia Lihua's gaze wandered to the Sacred River Restaurant logo discreetly embossed on the packaging of the food containers.