Alexander’s stare was heavy, burning with a raw need that filled the space between them.

Evelyn recognized that hunger instantly.

Her eyes dropped to her own body. The towel had slipped during her movement.

The soft swell of her breasts was now exposed, a silent temptation. She froze, heat rushing to her cheeks in a wave of pure mortification.

Did he have no sense of propriety?

Just as she opened her mouth to protest, he turned his head away.

For a fleeting second, she thought he’d shown restraint. Then his voice, rough and low, shattered the illusion. "Don't worry. I'm right here. Change quickly, before you get cold."

His forced composure somehow made her feel cherished.

Even now, his first thought was for her comfort.

A small smile touched her lips. But then she noticed his shirt was soaked through.

"Your clothes are all wet because of me," she said. "You should change, too."

She paused, considering. "I didn't get a proper rinse. The bath was cut short." Her voice dropped to a suggestive murmur. "How about we shower together?"

Her offer clearly startled him.

He arched a brow, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Are you certain about that?"

Evelyn lifted her chin, defiant. "Why wouldn't I be?"

This hesitation was unlike him.

She reached out, gently grasping his chin. Her whisper was a deliberate provocation. "Come on, darling. Don't tell me you don't want me."

Her touch was a spark. The fire in his eyes ignited instantly.

His voice tightened. "You know I do. But you're tired. I'm thinking of you."

Evelyn let out a soft laugh. "I'm stronger than I look."

With a confident smile, she leaned in. Her warm breath ghosted his ear as she whispered, "Then stop wasting time, darling. Since you want me..."

Alexander's gaze turned dangerously dark. "You've brought this on yourself."

In one swift motion, he pulled her into his arms. His hand cupped her face, and his mouth captured hers in a kiss that held nothing back.

Soon, the sound of the shower spray filled the room.

Their breaths mingled in the steam. Behind the foggy glass, their shadows merged into one.

The water ran. Their entangled forms remained, as if they had been knotted together all night.

The next morning, as Alexander poured milk for Evelyn, she suddenly sneezed.

He immediately offered a napkin, his brow furrowed with concern. "Are you catching a cold? I'm to blame for keeping you awake so late..."

Evelyn's eyes widened in alarm. She pressed her fingers to his lips. "Hush! Don't say another word."

She glanced nervously toward the kitchen, relieved to see the staff occupied.

If anyone had overheard him, she would die of embarrassment! How could he be so brazen?

She shot him a warning look, snatching her hand back and quickly stuffing a piece of toast into his mouth.

"Enough. Just eat. I'm perfectly fine," she stated firmly.

Seeing the determination in her eyes, Alexander wisely remained silent.

As they ate, Samuel approached and gave a slight bow. "There is a visitor at the gate, sir."

"Who is it?" Alexander asked, looking up.

Samuel hesitated briefly before answering. "It's Mrs. Margaret Blackwood, sir."