章 255: Bound by Desire      

[EVE]

"Want to join me for a bath?" Cole's voice broke through my thoughts, low and teasing.

I blinked, startled. "H-huh?" My mind blanked, unable to process his sudden suggestion.

Before I could say more, he stepped closer, wrapping his arms around me from behind. His embrace was firm, steady, and undeniably comforting. He leaned in, his breath warm against my skin as he nipped gently at my ear, making me shiver.

"It'll help you forget . . . some of the bad stuff," he murmured, his voice soft yet filled with meaning.

For a moment, I stood frozen, caught between surprise and something deeper. The day's exhaustion, the weight of the unanswered questions, and the ache of disappointment began to melt away in the warmth of his presence.