Milena swallowed the bile that rose in her throat, feeling vulnerable before him. Her fingers trembled as they gripped the towel tighter, her nails digging into the damp fabric. She willed herself to stay strong, to not let him see how much he affected her. But Rafael was a predator, and she was trapped in his sights.

“Are you still scared of me?” he asked softly, his thumb caressing her cheek. He seemed to have noticed that she was trembling slightly.

Milena stayed silent, her eyes locked with his. The grip on her towel remained firm.

Rafael tilted his head. “You know I promise not to hurt you, right?”

“Only...