Chapter 69

Leo Steam billowed from the bathroom as I adjusted the shower temperature, creating a warm mist that filled the marble-tiled space. Victoria stood in the center of the room, looking small and vulnerable despite the incredible power she'd demonstrated today. The dichotomy fascinated me—how someone so delicate could harbor such ancient, formidable strength. "Come here," I said softly, reaching for her. She moved toward me without hesitation, a trust in her eyes that made my chest tighten. I gently peeled away her clothes, revealing inch by inch the body I'd come to worship. Every curve, every freckle was familiar to me now, yet I never tired of looking at her. As I removed her shirt, I noticed the faint green glow beneath her skin—a telltale sign of her Forest heritage awakening. "The plants," I murmured, running a finger along the glowing veins on her wrist. "What was it like? Connecting with them?" Victoria leaned into my touch, her exhaustion evident in the droop of her shoulders. "It