Chapter 99

Hera felt herself suffocating; her heart pounded. Only when the screen's light dimmed did she gasp for air. Skadi's message reappeared, illuminating her phone: "[Are you asleep?]". Nash's face was inches from hers. The closeness brought a blush to his cheeks; he could smell her shower gel and shampoo. Her flushed face made him want to bite it.

Thunder cracked outside. Hera squeezed her eyes shut. He gently enveloped her, whispering, "Don't be afraid. I'm here." His deep, soothing voice calmed her considerably. She rested her hands on his chest, clad only in her nightdress. He dared not inhale her scent, fearing he'd lose control. Closing his eyes, he held his breath, focusing on his energy. He felt the energy in his lower abdomen surge, then quickly reined it in. He mused, No wonder his master beheaded his lover. Did his master's feelings hinder his cultivation?

Hera fought the rising tension in her chest. Looking up, she asked, "Are you sleepy?"

"I'm good..."

"I... I'm a little sleepy..."

"Sleep, then."

"I can't sleep with you hugging me," Hera whined.

Nash smiled, gently releasing her. He turned onto his side and drifted off. Soon, he felt small arms encircle him. He felt the softness of Hera's body through her thin nightdress. This time, his muscles tensed.

Hera pouted. "I usually sleep with Snow, but since you're taking its place, I'll treat you the same way." Closing her eyes, she fell asleep. Nash took a deep breath, suppressing the fire within, as Hera quickly succumbed to slumber.

The next morning, sunlight woke Nash. Hera's sleeping position had changed. She lay with her legs wrapped around his waist, her nightdress riding up above her stomach. He saw her fair skin, slender rosy legs, plump feet, and adorable toes. Her white lace underwear, thin as a cicada's wing, was visible.

"Hmm..." Hera stretched lazily, her legs extending. Nash's nose bled.

"Fuck!!!" He pinched his nose, covering her with the blanket. He'd considered his willpower impressive; he hadn't expected a nosebleed.

Hera rubbed her eyes sleepily. "Nash, what time is it?"

Nash glanced at the clock. "Ten to nine!"

"I'm gonna go..." Hera sat up, quickly smoothing down her nightdress. Seeing his pinched nose, she asked, "What's wrong?"

"I have a fever," he replied.

She didn't dwell on it, heading to the bathroom. "There are fever meds in the drawer. Take two later."

After dressing and applying light makeup, she rushed to the company. Nash followed, and they found Harrison battered and bruised upon entering the office.

"Dad, what happened to you?" Hera exclaimed.