Chapter 6: Aftermath and New Rules

My robe was very convenient—came off with just a tug.

The hotel AC clicked on, but my skin was already on fire. Marcus’s shirt was undone—also convenient…

Five times in one night. My waist nearly broke.

We collapsed between exhaustion and disbelief, sunrise bleeding through the blackout curtains. The next morning, I got up, hand on my sore back, and handed Marcus my black Amex card.

“My back’s killing me—think you could work your magic?”

I knew how complicated Marcus must feel, and I knew what responsibility came with taking advantage of him.

He didn’t take the card or say a word.

He silently got out of bed to shower, then came out bare-chested, towel slung low on his hips, rummaging for his ruined clothes.

When he looked at me, I put on my most innocent face. “For the record, you tore those yourself last night.”

My voice was hoarse, sanded raw by everything that happened.

Marcus’s ears went red.

Finally, he handed me a glass of water, as if he’d made a decision.

So pure. So clueless.

Even after being thoroughly taken advantage of, he still handed me water.

I downed it in one go.

“Want more?”

That was the first thing he said to me after a night of chaos.

Poor thing, he didn’t even realize how that sounded, and his ears reddened more.

“Yes.”

I teased, watching him freeze, conflicted.

His Adam’s apple bobbed, as if he wanted to curse.

I clicked my tongue and waved him off.

His phone was still at the bar, so he was basically under my soft house arrest.

My conscience prickled. After all, I’d forced myself on him. I should treat him better.

I propped a pillow behind my back and scrolled on my phone, shopping for clothes for us both.

“Waist size?”

“Shoulder size?”

He answered every question, and I sized him up, squinting.

No wonder he had a model’s body—might as well order by model measurements.

He pressed his lips together, then finally said, “And…"

He hesitated, then: "Underwear."

"Oh, I know your size. Already ordered," I said, breezy as ever.

Now even the corners of his eyes were red. He poured another glass of water, turning away to hide a smile. I grinned, feeling like I’d won a tiny, private victory.