Chapter 165: Not Even With Me?

“How’s your mom doing?” Roman’s voice came from behind me, low and warm, rippling through the soft hiss of bathwater. I exhaled slowly, popping a small bubble that floated past my knee. “Paler,” I said quietly. “Weaker. And a lot thinner, too.” His arms circled me from behind, his body pressing against mine under the water. The solid weight of him grounded me. I leaned back against his chest, closing my eyes as the steam curled around us. “I’m so sorry, Sav.” I tilted my head up to look at him. His gaze softened, full of that same aching empathy I’d come to love and resent all at once. I smiled faintly. “Don’t be. It’s not your fault. Besides, she’s taking it better than I thought she would. Everyone is.” He brushed his thumb against my jaw. “I’ll make out a little time soon and go visit her at the hospital. I should’ve done that already.” “That’ll make her happy,” I murmured, a tiny warmth blooming in my chest. “Thank you.” He smiled back, the corners of his mouth curving gently, and