Lucien sat outside the bathroom door, listening to the steady hum of water against tile, feeling an odd peace settle over him. His concern for May had driven him here, but now, her soft laughter and teasing had anchored him in ways he hadn't expected.
He felt her presence as if it were woven into the air around him. Just as he was debating whether he should knock to check on her, the door creaked open, and a wave of warm steam drifted out.
May stepped into the hallway, wrapped in a soft white robe, her skin still flushed from the heat of the shower. Her damp curls fell over her shoulders, framing her bright blue eyes and soft, pink lips. She looked up at him and gave a gentle smile, her gaze warm and grateful.
Without another thought, he reached for her, tilting her chin up and capturing her lips in a slow, lingering kiss. She melted against him, her hands finding his arms for support, and he savored the way she felt-small, delicate, and yet strong. She fit perfectly against him, and he found himself completely entranced by the warmth of her body and the softness of her lips.
After a moment, he reluctantly pulled back, still holding her close as she caught her breath. "You'll catch what I have, Lucien," she murmured, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips.
He chuckled, brushing a stray curl away from her face. "I'll gladly risk it, May. Any opportunity I get, I'll kiss you."
Taking her by the hand, he led her back to her bed, guiding her down as she slipped under the covers, her familiar, sweet scent filling his senses. She looked up at him, her gratitude clear in her expression.
"Lucien, thank you for everything. I really appreciate it," she whispered, her eyes lingering on him.
He smiled, his voice soft. "Anything for you, May."
She patted the empty spot beside her on the bed, a playful glint in her eyes. "You must be tired. You've been a doctor, a chef, and now my personal nurse. Take a break, Mr Romano."
He laughed, taking off his watch and setting it aside. "Only because the patient insists."
As he considered her invitation, she glanced toward the bathroom and teased, "You can also take a shower."
He raised an eyebrow, glancing back at the shelves filled with various bottles and containers. "What do I even use, May? You've got a whole skincare store in there."
She giggled, her laugh warm and familiar. "Use whichever one you want. They all have their purposes."
Smiling, he walked into the bathroom, admiring the collection of products that felt so uniquely hers. Each bottle and jar seemed like a small insight into who she was, and as he turned on the shower, he felt a strange, comforting feeling settle over him. This was her world, her sanctuary-and, for now, he was a part of it.
