The footsteps on the stairs froze both of them in place. Elena’s heart slammed against her ribs so hard she felt dizzy. Marcus’s hands were still under her robe, fingers inches from her soaked pussy, his mouth still hovering against hers. Victoria’s voice drifted down the staircase again, sleepy but concerned.

“Marcus? Is that you? I thought I heard voices.”

Marcus pulled back slowly, eyes locked on Elena’s. He pressed a finger to her lips — a silent command. Then he called out, voice impressively steady, “Just getting some water, honey. Go back to bed. Everything’s fine.”

A pause. Then Victoria’s footsteps retreated. The distant click of their bedroom door...