Diana turned her face away from Max, her gaze avoiding his. The aftermath of their intense moment had left them both emotionally charged, and she couldn't bear to look at him. In a calm yet resolute tone, she spoke, "Max, you have blood all over you. Don't touch me."

Max, realizing the gravity of her words, slowly released his grip on her waist, allowing her the space she needed to gather herself. Diana began to dress and fix her hair with meticulous care, trying to regain her ...