Chapter 117

Deric POV

The steam clung to my skin as I stepped out of the shower, towel slung low on my hips. The scent of Ava’s lotion filled the room, lavender, sweet and grounding. She sat curled up on the bed, knees hugged to her chest, my oversized hoodie drowning her delicate frame. Her chin rested on her knees, eyes soft and sleepy, tracking my every move. I had decided not to bring up her father’s incident ever again.

“You always look sexy after a hot shower,” she murmured in a sweet tone.

I grinned, running a hand through my wet hair. “That’s because I’m sexy.”

She rolled her eyes, but the corners of her lips lifted. “Charmer.”

I stepped closer, leaned in, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Only for you.”

My phone buzzed on the nightstand. Twice, the