Chapter 18. Determination

I woke up in the night to find Ervin climbing onto the bed. How long had he been in the bathroom exactly? I had fallen asleep while waiting. The lights were off, defeating the whole purpose of the outfit. Thankfully, the moon's rays were enough to make things clear, but it seemed Ervin was determined to not spare me a glance tonight.

"Ervin," I mumbled, my voice softer than ever.

He stilled. "You’re still up."

I turned to face him, noticing his eyes straying down as he took in my appearance, his gaze lingering on my exposed thighs.

"You should get some sleep, Hazel," he mumbled. His voice was dark, but his eyes remained fixated on my thighs. He pulled them away hesitantly and turned to sleep, backing away.

My head fell back in defeat. I guess that wasn't enough to sway him. My hands wrapped around myself as I felt the biting cold. Had it always been so cold in here? I had gotten used to the cozy nature of the room