Chapter 41

Harper’s POV

The bathroom is quiet, lit only by the soft golden glow of the wall sconces, the air warm and thick with steam. Theo sets me down with careful hands, like I might break if he moves too fast. My bare feet touch the tile, cool and solid, grounding. But he doesn’t step back, not right away. He stays close, his presence a steady heat against my skin.

He reaches around me, twisting the shower knobs gently until warm water streams from the head, misting the space in a gentle hiss. The sound is soft, soothing, like rainfall. I watch the droplets slide over the tiled floor, unable to speak, unable to look at him just yet. Shame still clings to me like a second skin.

Theo steps in first, then offers me his hand. I take it, and he guides me in slowly, making sure I don’t slip. The water hits my shoulders, warm and soft, and the first thing I d