Magnus stepped closer and crouched down in front of her. Resting on one knee, he gently reached for her injured foot.
His fingers were warm and firm as they moved over her ankle, carefully inspecting it. The contrast between his rough touch and her soft skin made her tense slightly.
He tilted her foot, studying the swelling, his thumb brushing lightly over the reddened area.
After a moment, he nodded.
“It’s fine,” he murmured. “Nothing serious. Just a small sprain. It should heal by tomorrow.”
“Good,” Sophia muttered under her breath.
He carefully placed her foot back on the couch, making sure it was supported before letting go.
Then he looked up at her.
“Why didn’t you wear the dress I gave you?” he asked.
Sophia blinked, slightly surprised by the question.
“I will,” she said. “I just didn’t get the chance yet.”
Magnus reached for her ankle again, this time more gently. His fingers moved in slow, light strokes, massaging the injured area.
His voice softened.
“You should wear it to auctions,” he said quietly, his voice low and steady. “The fabric is very good.”
His gaze stayed fixed on her foot, a slight frown forming between his brows as he pressed gently along the swollen area.
“I had it made specially for you,” he continued, almost murmuring now. “High-quality fabric. I looked into everything before buying it.”
He paused for a second, pressing lightly again.
“I made sure it would be one of the best dresses you own.”
Sophia watched him in silence.
He wasn’t even looking at her.
All his attention was on her ankle, his jaw slightly tight, that small frown still sitting between his brows as if her injury bothered him more than it should.
And somehow—
That made her heart race.
She swallowed, trying to steady herself, but her chest felt tight. Her heartbeat quickened, loud and unsteady, refusing to calm no matter how hard she tried. She pressed her lips together, but it didn’t help.
He looked… worried.
That thought made her chest tighten even more.
Magnus’s fingers slowed, then stilled. As if sensing her gaze, he lifted his head.
His eyes met hers.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
“I’ll wear it next time,” Sophia said softly, breaking the silence. “Thank you… for getting it for me.”
