Chapter 14: A Shared Bath

Their idyllic stroll had been perhaps too perfect; a counterbalance was inevitable. Returning home after their walk with Pudding, the rain began to fall.

Summer showers often started as a drizzle before escalating into a downpour. The cool rain dispelled the lingering heat, abruptly ending Bella's dreamlike moment. It struck her then that had she left earlier, and Dominic hadn't retrieved her, she would forever regret it. But now, she felt no regrets; she had done everything she'd hoped to do with him. The rain was too heavy to avoid getting soaked, so they took their time walking home.

They continued at a normal pace, letting the rain wash over them. Pudding, delighted, frolicked in the puddles like a child.

Once home, Dominic asked a housekeeper to clean Pudding. Drenched, Bella shivered as she entered the air-conditioned room.

"I'll go bathe before changing," she said.

Dominic replied, "You can use any bathroom. Pudding's probably being cleaned in yours. Even though his fur isn't long, it'll take a while."

Bella's heart trembled. She'd never been in his bathroom before, hesitant due to his personal belongings. However, he’d offered it to her. Doubts arose; was his kindness merely a calculated act of revenge? Was she walking into a trap?

Even knowing the risk, she couldn't resist his allure. His gentleness was intoxicating, dangerously so.

"Hurry and change, or you'll catch cold," he urged.

Summoning her remaining rationality, she said, "I can wait. You should hurry." Dominic ignored her, placing his hands on her shoulders and guiding her into his room. He pushed her into his bathroom, closed the door, and said, "Be quick."

Bella was exasperated by his domineering nature. What could she do?

After undressing, she surveyed his enormous bathroom, complete with a large bathtub and lavish fixtures. Even the sink seemed unusually wide. His toiletries were neatly arranged, including a few skincare products, making the counter appear sparsely populated. She recalled he hadn't seemed particularly interested in skincare before.

While bathing, she noticed he used the same brand of shampoo and body wash as she did—a brand her friend had recommended years ago. It was affordable and student-friendly. She'd never imagined he used it too.

Suddenly, she heard Dominic take a phone call outside. He sounded angry, and although she couldn't hear the conversation, she felt apprehensive. Would his anger be directed at her?

Dominic abruptly opened the bathroom door, his expression grim. He shed his wet clothes and stood before Bella. Water sprayed them both, startling her. "I" she began, but he interrupted.

"I need to go; I don't have time to wait. We might as well bathe together."

Despite his offer, Bella hesitated, inching towards the wall, instinctively shielding herself. Although he'd seen her naked before, the situation made her blush.