Ethan propped himself up on one elbow, brows furrowing slightly. "What's wrong?"

Jenna stood barefoot on the floor, bent over as violent coughs wracked her body, turning her face crimson.

Her throat burned with raw pain.

She hurried to the living room and gulped down a glass of lukewarm water before finding relief.

When she returned to the bedroom, Ethan was already sitting up. She grabbed her sleepwear. "I'll shower first."

"Mhm."

After her shower, she found Ethan spreading out bedding on the floor.

Jenna couldn't suppress a laugh.

He turned to look at her.

"Addicted to sleeping on the floor now?" She walked over to him.

"Wasn't it you who refused the bed?" He continued smoothing the sheets. "I'm keeping you company."

"Then enjoy the floor." Jenna arched a brow. "Tonight, I'm taking the bed."

Who in their right mind would choose hard flooring over a plush mattress?

Ethan paused mid-motion. "No more floor sleeping?"

Jenna sat at the vanity and began her skincare routine. "I'm not an idiot."

Silently, Ethan gathered the bedding and stuffed it into the closet.

"Guess we won't need this anymore," he murmured.

Jenna pressed her lips together, amused.

After finishing her routine, she slipped under the covers.

When Ethan returned from washing up, his arm naturally draped over her shoulders. "This okay?"

"Mhm." Blushing, she turned toward him.

As the lights went out, he pulled her closer. "Do you dislike it when I touch you?"

Moonlight filtered through the curtains as Jenna answered, "I'm slow to warm up. Too much too soon makes me nervous—afraid you'll leave once you get what you want."

Ethan's arm stiffened.

"I won't let go." His voice was low and firm. "Jenna, I know you don't believe me, but when Ethan Roscente gives his word, he keeps it."

"Time will tell." She closed her eyes. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Ethan understood her wariness. He'd prove through actions that he wasn't like Lucien Valois.

......

Jenna awoke at dawn's first light.

Beside her, Ethan breathed steadily in sleep. She carefully lifted his arm away.

Turning off the AC, she tucked the blanket snugly around him.

Assured he still slept, she crept from the bedroom on silent feet.

After freshening up, she tied on an apron and began breakfast preparations.

Remembering how long it'd been since she cooked for Ethan, she prepared extra dishes.

By the time morning rays brightened the sheer curtains, four stir-fried dishes adorned the table. Steam rose from bamboo baskets of flower buns and stuffed buns.

Wiping her hands, Jenna went to wake Ethan.