"So… let me," Roman murmured, his voice low enough to blend with the soft hum of the morning air.
Julie lifted her head just slightly, her wide eyes peeking up at him as if unsure whether she heard him right.
Roman's lips curved in a slow, warm smile — the type of smile that softened every sharp edge on his face.
"Let me bathe you," he repeated, gentler this time.
Julie's reaction was instant. A small gasp rose from her throat before she quickly hid her face in the crook of his neck, her cheeks burning against his skin.
Her fingers curled lightly at his shoulders, unsure whether to push him away or hold onto him for balance.
"I'll take that as a yes," Roman whispered, amusement dancing in his voice.
Before she could protest or even breathe properly, he slid one arm under her knees and the other beneath her back, lifting her effortlessly into a bridal carry.
Julie's fingers clutched the back of his neck as the warm air shifted around them with each of his steps.
