Chapter 78
The inn offered tourist photography services, charging ten euros per photo. Thalia found a photographer and asked, "Would you mind using our camera instead?"
The photographer examined the camera with undisguised admiration. "Good heavens, you're serious enthusiasts! This camera is quite expensive. I've had my eye on one, but couldn't justify the cost."
Thalia smiled. "Just a hobby, really."
The photographer grinned. "This is my dream camera! I'll take some splendid shots for you."
Thalia replied politely, "You're too kind."
He directed their poses, saying, "Sir, could you move slightly to the left? Yes, perfect. Miss, lift your chin a touch. Perfect." As he photographed them, he marveled at the camera's craftsmanship and resolution. "Quality truly has its price! I must save up for one!"
He then looked up and addressed Asher with easy familiarity, "You and your girlfriend are extraordinarily photogenic, like film stars! My casual shots could grace a magazine cover."
Asher, in excellent spirits, replied, "Most kind of you to say." His gaze drifted to Drake, who stood behind the photographer, his face dark. Asher flashed a triumphant smile, pulling Thalia closer, his fingers possessively on her hip.
Drake watched the affectionate couple with a grim expression, his heart aching. Unable to bear his distress, he turned and left.
Asher’s lips curved upward in satisfaction. The photographer, handling his dream camera, enthusiastically took dozens of photos.
Half an hour later, he reluctantly returned the camera. "I'll only charge you for two photos. The rest are complimentary—my thanks for letting me use this magnificent equipment."
Asher browsed the photos. "You've been generous with your shots."
Thalia leaned close, her body against Asher's. "Darling, your photography is truly impressive—these are gorgeous." She then looked at the photographer. "Please, charge us the proper amount. You're running a business, and we wouldn't dream of taking advantage of your kindness."
The photographer felt abashed. The inn's rate wasn't cheap, and few paid it. This couple had let him use their superior equipment, and he'd taken forty or fifty photos instead of the requested ten. The full rate would be four or five hundred euros. That wouldn't be right.
His conscience prevailed. "That's not necessary. I've taken forty or fifty. The full rate would be frightfully expensive. Let's stick with the price for ten—one hundred euros."
He offered his PayPal details. Asher completed the transaction, but a moment later, the photographer received a notification for five hundred euros. His eyes widened. "Sir, I believe you've entered the wrong amount. Let me return the excess."
"There's no mistake," Asher replied calmly. "I never take advantage of others."
The photographer was surprised and delighted. Thalia smiled warmly. "Thank you for your help. Consider it a contribution toward your new camera."
"I should be thanking you! You're absolute angels. Thank you, thank you." The photographer bowed repeatedly. "I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!"
After leaving the inn, they browsed the market, where Thalia bought gifts for her friends. That night, snow fell heavily.
By the window, Asher's passionate kisses fell like gentle yet insistent raindrops against Thalia's skin. She felt dizzy with his attention, her senses overwhelmed. Condensation coated the windows; her handprints remained on the glass as Asher held her from behind.
Afterwards, Thalia felt languid and spent. "Thank you, Asher," she murmured contentedly.
He lifted her into his arms, carrying her to the bathroom. "What are you thanking me for, my darling?" His voice was rich with affection.
Thalia bit her lip, her eyes meeting his with vulnerability. "For always being by my side, for your devotion, for allowing me to experience such beautiful love."
He carried her into the warm bathroom. He gently placed her in the tub and ran hot water, his fingers lingering on her skin. Thalia reclined lazily. "To be precise, you and Drake are entirely different in my heart. I never felt possessive of Drake, nor did I particularly enjoy physical intimacy. But with you…it's completely different. I feel intensely possessive of you. I want to hide you away for myself alone."
Asher joined her in the tub, washing her skin, his touch lingering on places he'd kissed. His lips curved upward, his eyes brightening with desire. "How intense is this possessiveness?"
Thalia mumbled shyly, "I want to hide you away for myself alone. Lock you up so no one else can have you."
"Lia," Asher called softly, his hand tracing patterns on her skin. "Do you love me?"
Thalia responded instantly, "Of course I do. Very much."
Asher asked again, his eyes fixed on hers: "How much is 'very much'?"
Thalia tilted her head thoughtfully. After a moment, she looked up, her expression serious. "Very much. More than anyone. Only you. No one could ever take your place in my heart."
Overwhelmed, he kissed her. Things escalated quickly. They spent considerable time in the bathroom before emerging. Thalia's body bore several dark red marks, visible even through her robe.
She puffed her cheeks playfully. "Must you mark me everywhere like some territorial beast? How am I supposed to face people tomorrow without looking thoroughly debauched?"
Asher smiled, tracing a mark. "It's winter—you can wear high-necked jumpers and scarves. Though I confess, I rather like the idea of everyone knowing you're thoroughly claimed."
"You're impossible," she murmured, but her eyes betrayed her pleasure. He carried her out of the bathroom when the doorbell rang repeatedly, indicating urgency. "Who could it be at this hour?" Thalia wondered, tightening her robe.
Chapter 79