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Chapter 39: Small Talk

Author: Lauren
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-17 10:25:12

Candice’s POV

I pushed the guest room door open, the faint hum of Fousheé’s “Deep End” still buzzing in my ears even after I’d yanked the headphones off.

My chest felt tight, like the air in the room was pressing down on me, and I couldn’t stay curled up on that bed any longer. I needed to move, to breathe, to shake off the weight of Dorian’s accusations and that suffocating fight.

The folded pile of clothes stared at me from the corner of the bed, a neat little reminder of how I’d tried to keep some control over this mess. But control? That was a joke now.

Stepping into the hallway, I smoothed my hands over my jeans, trying to steady myself. The house was too quiet, a contrast to the shouting match Dorian and I had earlier.

I padded down the stairs, my bare feet silent against the glossy tiled floor. I froze halfway when I caught sight of Dorian in the living room. He stood near the window, his broad shoulders rigid, his jaw set in that way that made him look like he was chewi
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    Candice’s POV“And why wouldn't you allow me to bathe you?” He asked, shifting closer to me on the bed “Well…” I trailed off, scratching my nape unsure of what to say “Well, that's because…” I began again, but trailed off a second time. The words were in my throat, but were kind of stuck, so nothing was coming out. Was this the Dorian effect taking a hold on me? “Well….” He adjusted closer to me, and I wasn't sure if I should sit still or move a little away from him. I found myself sitting still. “....what?” He asked and I could hear him cackle. Obviously laughing at how the huge effect he had on me made me all fidgety. “Well, I can bathe myself, Dorian” I finally found my voice “I didn't say you cannot. I said, I wanna do it, so let me” Before I could comprehend what was happening, he was already in extremely close proximity with me and had already pulled the duvet off my knees and legs. “Come on, raise your hands” “Hold on, hold on, Dorian. Wait, please” I blushed, trying no

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