With that, Richard climbed into bed, leaving the other half unoccupied. Seeing Tiffany’s stunned look, he propped his head up on one hand, his deep, dark eyes hiding a playful smile. “Get in bed,” he said.

“Is he serious?” Tiffany was flustered. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea,” she said, the red candle in her hand trembling slightly, a clear sign of her inner turmoil.

Why was it that Richard, usually as aloof as a deity, acted so differently with her? He constantly seemed to break his aloof façade around her.

“Who would believe this?” Tiffany thought, feeling like crying.

After a moment's hesitation, Tiffany decided to flee. “Goodnight,” she said quickly, attempting to leave. But the power outage plunged the room into darkness as the candle went out with a whoosh. Unable to find the door, she was trapped.

“Oh my God! I’m freaking out! Damn!” Tiffany screamed.

A soft laugh came from behind her. Candlelight flickered back on. Tiffany turned to see Richard setting up a makeshift bed on the floor.

Seeing her flushed face, Richard teased, “Don’t worry, I won’t give you a chance to take advantage of me.” (The thought, “Of course, I also won’t necessarily fight it if you do,” crossed Richard’s mind, but remained unspoken.)

Tiffany laughed in frustration. His teasing had erased the awkwardness of sharing the room. “Don’t worry, I’ll stay perfectly still,” she answered.

“Oh, that’s a pity,” Richard sighed lightly, a smile playing on his lips.

Tiffany didn’t understand his meaning but didn’t dare ask, fearing a more provocative response.

Soon, Tiffany removed her shoes and lay on the bed, pulling the slightly musty blanket over her. This feels like a dream, she thought. Sharing a room with Richard? Everyone's jaws would drop! She turned to peek at him.

The candlelight revealed Richard’s flawlessly handsome face. His dark, deep eyes were closed, his long eyelashes casting shadows on his eyelids. He looked even more enchanting, a rare gentleness replacing his usual coldness.

Lost in admiration, Tiffany froze as Richard suddenly opened his eyes. Their gazes met.

Caught admiring him! More embarrassing? Tiffany thought, quickly closing her eyes, pretending to sleep.

A different atmosphere settled in the small room. Richard watched her for a while, a faint smile in his eyes. She’s not very sneaky, he thought.

The next morning, the sun shone brightly. The storm had passed, leaving behind toppled trees and debris. Tiffany and Richard prepared to leave. Before they went, Tiffany noticed a small stack of cash on the table.

Sitting in the car, Tiffany yawned repeatedly. She’d tossed and turned all night, only drifting off in the early hours. The hard bed had been uncomfortable, but she’d made do. Richard’s presence had been completely unexpected. She’d assumed someone of his status would be fastidious.

But he showed no arrogance, remaining composed even in the simple rural setting. He was undeniably charming.

Casually, Tiffany asked, “Does your back hurt?” He’d given up the bed for her.

Richard glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “No, it doesn’t hurt. I’m strong and fit,” he replied, his words laced with hidden meaning.

Tiffany blushed, speechless, and didn’t continue the topic.

Once they reached the previously blocked area, the search resumed. Theo reported rescuing three cars and five people. Thanks to timely medical attention, the seriously injured were in comas, while others, though injured, were not in mortal danger. Sidney, however, remained missing.

Around 9:30 a.m., thick smoke billowed nearby, indicating a fire.

“Let’s check it out,” Richard said decisively.

Tiffany followed. “Do you think that could be a signal from Sidney?” she asked.

“Definitely,” Richard replied, turning his head and suddenly reaching for her hand. “Come with me.”

The muddy path was uneven, but Tiffany, taking his hand without hesitation, found the walk easier with his help.

They found the smoke emanating from a burning abandoned building. Not far away lay Sidney and Zoe.

“Zoe? What are you doing here?” Tiffany exclaimed, shocked to see her. Since their last encounter, Tiffany had been preoccupied and forgotten about Zoe. This reunion was a surprise.

Sidney’s safety is largely due to me, and my rescue of Zoe has subtly changed things, she thought.

Zoe’s eyes lit up. “Wow, Tiffany! It’s you again! You saved me! I’m so touched!”

Sidney, rolling his eyes, interrupted, “Come on, I saved you!”

(The final sentences mentioning .net are promotional and have been removed.)