Rewrite the Rules

Life's too short for boring baths: Part 68

 The Beverly Hills Oasis Hotel lived up to its name – a mirage of tranquility amidst the Los Angeles sprawl. But after a whirlwind day, even paradise felt like a struggle.

Exhaustion clung to me like a second skin as we pushed open the cottage door. The day's whirlwind of activity had left my muscles screaming in protest.

All I craved was a long, luxurious soak. With a weary sigh, I snagged a chilled glass of champagne from the counter, its clinking a small comfort in the quiet kitchen.

Glancing around for anything remotely relaxing, my eyes landed on a forgotten box of flickering faux candles. A mischievous grin tugged at my lips. Tonight, even flickering electric flames would have to do. Heaving myself off the stool, I grabbed the champagne flute and the box, picturing the steaming bath that awaited me.

The bathroom door creaked open, revealing a haven of dim light and calming scents. A wave of relief washed over me as I set the champagne and candles down on the vanity, the cool marble a welcome contrast to my flushed skin.

With a sense of urgency fueled by aching muscles, I stripped out of my clothes, tossing them carelessly onto a nearby chair. The steam from the hot water billowed invitingly, and I wasted no time sinking into the welcoming embrace of the tub. The air hung heavy with the unmistakable aroma of lavender, a soothing promise of relaxation.

As the water enveloped me in the over sized, clawfoot tub, a moan of pure bliss escaped my lips. I closed my eyes, letting the heat and the lavender scent melt away the tension in my body. Each sip of the champagne felt like a tiny celebration, a reward for surviving the day.

Finally, alone with the flickering candlelight and the calming scent of lavender, I allowed myself to unwind. The worries and stresses of the day faded away, replaced by a deep sense of peace.

The gentle whoosh of the running water was interrupted by the creak of the bathroom door opening a sliver. My heart skipped a beat as Namjoon's voice, laced with amusement, filled the lavender-scented air. "Hey there, missy mermaid."

I turned, the steam clinging to my skin like a veil, revealing a curious arch of his eyebrow. "What are you doing?" I asked, a playful smile tugging at my lips.

He held a luxurious white towel aloft, the fluffy fabric glowing under the dim bathroom lighting. "Thought you might need some assistance after your long day." He winked, then in a surprising move, tossed the towel towards me.

"Use it to cover yourself." He said.

I fumbled slightly, catching it just before it grazed the water's surface with a splash. A playful eyebrow shot up in mock accusation. "Careful, you almost ruined my bath."

He chuckled, a rich sound that sent shivers down my spine. "Sorry, wrap it around you" he drawled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Maybe I need some assistance myself."

With a flourish, he walked further into the bathroom, a small towel strategically wrapped around his waist. My breath caught in my throat. "Namjoon," I started, a playful protest forming on my lips.

"Don't worry," he interrupted, holding up a hand. "I'll be a perfect gentleman." He walked past the vanity, with his phone. A soft, romantic melody filled the air as he scrolled through his playlist.

"Wait, is that soundtrack called 'Seducing Emma'?" I blurted out, amusement bubbling up within me.

His cheeks flushed a light pink. "Uh... maybe," he mumbled sheepishly.

I couldn't help but grin. "That might be a bit forward, wouldn't you say?"

He shrugged, a playful smile curling his lips. "Let me at least refill your champagne, then?" He reached behind his back with a flourish, revealing a chilled bottle of champagne.