I twist my hair up into a bun, trying to mimic the ones from the films, before I tackle entering the bath. I highly doubt there’s an elegant way to do this. With both hands on the edge, I swing one leg over and tentatively dip my toes. Heat bloomsacross my skin, sinking into my bones. I give myself a moment before lowering further, melting into the bubbles until I’m fully submerged and let out a soft sigh. Maybe even a moan based on the sharp pulse spiking our bond.
Smiling, I swirl my hands through the bubbles, cupping them in my palms then blowing, watching the pastel pink water glide over my skin and leave a soft shimmer.
I quickly realise... I like baths.
Leaning back, I rest my head against the cold porcelain, letting the contrast soothe me—heat wrapping my muscles, coolness against my skin. My shoulders and knees peek just above the water, the rest is hidden by scented bubbles.
“I like the bath!” I call, knowing they’re close enough to hear.
They take that as their cue, and the door creaks open.
I turn to face them, cheek resting against the edge of the tub.
“And the bubbles. I really like those.” I smile, lift a handful, then blow them in their direction.
They stand frozen in the doorway.
Is this… not a thing people do? Are you not supposed to invite witnesses to your bath time?
Then there’s another spike in the bond. Tantalising crackles accompanied by rushing heat.
Chapter 56: Sai
What’s that shit people say when they see something they can’t believe?
She’s a vision. That’s it, right?
Because when I shove past Julien, Zeek and Kane into the bathroom, the steam parts like some divine act—and there she is.
My Red.
Fiery curls piled high, skin deliciously flush, cheek resting against the edge of the tub like some beautiful masterpiece.
And then she smiles.
Right at the four of us. Right at my fucking heart.
Yeah. She’s a painting, alright. A work of art.
My muse.
But then she frowns. “Aren’t you guys coming in?”
I’m already grabbing the bottom of my t-shirt, ready to rip that fucker off and dive headfirst—
“Not into the actual bath, you dickhead,”Zeek mutters, grabbing my arm.
I zap him, sparks snapping between us.
“Bastard,” he hisses aloud, letting go.
“She’s never had a bath.”Kane’s words stop my steps. It’s the way he says them, heavy and pained, like it’s cracked something in that stone-cold chest of his.
And now my chest feels achy too, because it’s not a tiny detail, not really. It’s massive.
Herfirstfucking bath?
I glance back at Red. Her smile’s faded, just a little, because we’re all standing here like a bunch of fucking useless idiots.
