Chapter 33

I woke to the warmth of sunlight spilling across the bed, but the comforting weight of Monique’s body was missing. Stretching carefully, I turned my head and heard the faint sound of splashing water coming from the ensuite. My muscles protested as I pushed myself up, but curiosity got the better of me.

Despite the stiffness in my limbs, I made my way toward the bathroom, leaning against the doorframe as I took in the sight before me.

Monique was lounging in a steaming bubble bath, her head tilted back against the rim, eyes half-lidded with relaxation. The bubbles barely concealed her curves, leaving glimpses of smooth, glistening skin visible through the shifting foam. A damp strand of hair clung to her shoulder, and when she heard me, she turned her head and smiled.

“Morning, mon amour,” she murmured, stretching her arms lazily along the edge of the tub. “I woke up a little sore and thought a good soak would help.” Her lips curled into a teasing grin. “Especially after yesterday’s ... activities.”

I smirked, stepping inside. “I told you I’d be gentle.”

She laughed softly. “You were. But it turns out I’m not used to walking around with certain things inside me all day.”

My grin widened, but just then, a more urgent issue took precedence. I needed to pee.

Clearing my throat, I gestured toward the toilet. “Uh ... do you mind turning away for a second?”

Monique raised an eyebrow, looking far too amused. “Why? Afraid I’ll watch?”

“Yes.”

She giggled, but instead of averting her gaze, she sat up slightly, water trickling down her shoulders, and gave me a wicked smirk. “What if I jump out and hold it for you?”

Heat flooded my face. “You wouldn’t.”

She bit her lip, feigning deep thought. “Hmm ... are you sure about that?”

Groaning, I turned my back to her, willing myself to ignore her amused gaze as I relieved myself. When I finished, I heard her soft laughter echo against the tiles.

“You’re too easy to fluster,” she teased.

I rolled my eyes. “Give me a break, Monique.”

Still grinning, she stretched out in the bath again. “You should grab a shower. My water’s getting cold, and I’ll join you to rinse off.”

I didn’t need more encouragement. Carefully, I wrapped my cast in its protective covering, adjusting it myself this time, and stepped into the warm cascade of water. The heat soothed my sore muscles instantly.

A few moments later, I felt a soft body press against my back. Monique had joined me, wrapping her arms loosely around my waist, her damp curves molding against me.

“I love how the water feels on my skin,” she whispered, pressing a light kiss between my shoulder blades before stepping around me, letting the spray soak her hair.

Her movements were deliberate, her body teasingly close as her hands slid over my chest, down my stomach, until she found exactly what she was looking for.

I sucked in a breath, feeling myself harden instantly under her touch.

“Still sore?” she asked, pretending innocence as she pressed her body closer.

I met her gaze, my breath uneven. “Not in the way you’re thinking.”

Monique’s smile turned mischievous as she slowly sank to her knees before me, water streaming down her body in rivulets.

“I think,” she murmured, wrapping her fingers around me, “that we should take care of that.”