Chapter 23: The Heat Between Them
Riven woke slowly, still adjusting to the quiet stillness of Ms. Haraguchi's home. It was the first morning in a long time he hadn't opened his eyes to anxiety or dread. But something else lingered beneath the surface now — something unspoken.
The scent of breakfast called him to the kitchen.
> "You slept like a rock," she said lightly, pouring miso soup into two bowls. "Eat. You need to recover."
She was different at home — casual, almost serene. Her hair was loose around her shoulders. She wore a soft, oversized sweater that slipped slightly off one shoulder, revealing the elegant curve of her neck.
He ate quietly, stealing glances he didn't mean to. The woman who was once his stern literature teacher now felt like someone else entirely — older, yes, but warm in a way he hadn't expected. Still… her presence carried something unreadable beneath the surface. Like watching fire behind glass.
> "The bath's ready," she said after clearing the dishes. "Take your time. It should relax your nerves."
Riven bowed his head slightly in thanks and padded down the hallway barefoot.
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Steam and Surprise
The bathroom was a haven of warmth and scent — soft steam rising from the tub, the air filled with herbal notes and something faintly floral.
He undressed slowly, easing into the bath. It enveloped him with a deep, calming heat. His mind drifted. His muscles loosened.
He didn't hear the door open.
> "Let me help," she said quietly.
Riven looked up — startled.
Ms. Haraguchi stood at the threshold. Her hair was tied up this time, and her robe hung loosely around her. She stepped inside… and let it slide from her shoulders.
His breath caught.
She didn't try to hide. She didn't speak. Her body was real, soft, mature. She stepped into the tub behind him, the water rising gently as she settled.
Her hands moved to his back, slow and sure, working the soap into a lather.
> "You're young," she whispered. "But not innocent."
Her chest pressed lightly against him — not accidental. Her hands moved with grace, tracing his shoulders, his arms.
> "Your body speaks louder than your words," she added softly, her breath teasing his ear.
Riven couldn't answer. He felt tension coil inside him — not fear, but raw awareness.
She didn't go further. But she didn't retreat either.
The air between them sizzled — unspoken want crackling like fire in fog.
And just when he thought the heat would break him, she stood slowly, water sliding down her skin like silk.
> "Dinner's at seven," she said, stepping out. "Don't take too long."
Then she left him alone — breathless, confused, and burning.