Francisco reclined in the bathtub, enveloped in warm water and steam. The tranquility was shattered as the door creaked open, and Hazel tiptoed into the room. Francisco's eyes remained closed, his expression undisturbed by her presence.

"What?"

“What now?” she questioned, her tone tinged with mild annoyance.

Hazel bit her lip, grappling with her decision.

Slowly, Francisco opened his eyes, starting from her feet and moving up. Hazel, wrapped in a towel, felt his ...