It's in the eyes. Always the eyes.

Chapter Twenty-three| Further into Tranquility Falls

 Warning(s): Implied intimate scene

       Penny's eyes fluttered open slowly, her mind still foggy from sleep. She blinked, adjusting to the dim morning light that streamed into the unfamiliar room. This wasn't her room in the temple. As her senses gradually sharpened, she felt the warmth of a body pressed against her back, strong arms wrapped securely around her waist.

She turned her head slightly, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Crash beside her, fast asleep. His peaceful expression was a contrast to the whirlwind of emotions running through her. It all came flooding back—the hot springs, their quiet and awkward moment that turned into something much deeper, something intimate.

Her cheeks warmed at the thought, her heart swelling with affection. They had made love, a moment so intense and filled with love that it left her breathless. It wasn't just the physical connection that lingered in her mind, though. It was the way Crash had held her, his touches both tender and passionate, as if he was afraid to lose her even in that vulnerable moment.

She remembered his words, moaning into her ear as their bodies were entwined, heated. "I love you."

The memory made her heart flutter all over again, and she realized just how deeply she had fallen for him. Those simple words, spoken in the heat of their shared passion, were more than just words—they were the culmination of everything Crash had ever done to show her how much he cared, how much he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her by his side.

Penny let out a soft, contented sigh, pressing herself closer to him, feeling his steady heartbeat against her back. She closed her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips as she replayed the memory over and over, savoring every detail.

Eventually, Penny felt Crash shift behind her. The warmth of his presence looming over her, and then she felt the soft press of his lips against the side of her temple. Her eyes fluttered open, looking over her shoulder and being greeted by the sight of his beautiful emerald eyes, sparkling with affection. He was smiling at her, that tender, loving smile that made her heart skip every time.

"Good morning," Crash spoke in his usual broken English, his voice gentle and filled with warmth. "You... sleep good?"

Penny's lips curved into a soft smile as she met his gaze, her heart swelling with love at how sweetly he was checking on her. She nodded, brushing her hand over his as she replied, "Yeah, I slept really well... thanks to you."

Crash chuckled, the sound rumbling deep in his chest, a knowing grin spreading across his face. He clearly understood the meaning behind Penny's words—how their time together last night in the hot springs had led to something far more intimate than either of them had expected.

Penny sat up, the bed sheets slipping down, exposing her bare chest to the cool morning air. She stretched a little before turning to Crash with a playful smile. "Come on," she said, her voice light as she leaned in to plant a quick kiss on his lips. "Let's go and get something to eat."

Crash's grin only widened as he watched her move across the room, his eyes following her every step. Penny reached the wooden chair where a neatly folded red hakama and white long-sleeved shirt awaited her. She raised an eyebrow, already knowing who had placed them there.