Francisco blinked his eyes slowly, trying to steady himself as he walked into the room. "A... Umm... It's okay. You don't have to take permission every time from me. After all, it's your mansion too," he stammered, his voice uncharacteristically uncertain.

Hazel glanced at him and offered a slight smile before returning to tidying her clothes. Francisco bit his lower lip, feeling a mix of nervousness and desire. He watched her, his mind racing. Why was he so hesitant? He had longed for ...