After the fifth round, I sink into the warm bathtub. The steam curls in the air, and my skin is covered in red marks glowing faintly under the water. Cassian sits behind me, his arms resting around my back, his chin pressed lightly on my shoulder.
I trail my fingers along my leg, tracing the fresh marks. His hand moves slowly over mine, his fingers tangling with mine as if he doesn't want to let go. His voice comes low and careful. "Does it hurt?"
A small smile tugs at my lips. "Nope."
He brushes his mouth against my neck, leaving a soft kiss before whispering, "I like you."
My body stiffens for a moment. I turn slightly, searching his eyes. His fingers graze my cheek, slow and deliberate, and his gaze doesn't waver. "You are so beautiful," he murmurs.
He leans closer, his breath warm against my ear. "I'm going abroad on a business trip. Come with me."
The offer lingers in the air, tempting, but I smile lightly. "Sounds good. But I'm busy."
