Chapter 302

Ethan's hand shifted slightly, evading her reaching fingertips.

"Acting like a child," his deep voice held a trace of exasperation.

Sophia froze, not daring to move.

The chiffon blouse was already sheer, now completely soaked at the shoulder. It could practically be wrung out.

This was with Ethan shielding her. Without his protection, the entire top would've been ruined.

Warm air from the hair dryer swept over the fabric, drying it quickly. But her damp bra still clung uncomfortably to her skin.

She pressed her lips together, already planning to secretly use the dryer again after her shower.

"Overthinking again?" His voice suddenly sounded by her ear.

Before she could react, she felt a release at her back.

Click—

The bra clasp came undone effortlessly.

"You—!" She frantically moved to cover herself, cheeks burning.

Ethan leisurely switched off the dryer. "Uncomfortable in wet clothes?"

"I can handle it myself..."

Helping dry her undergarments? How was this different from washing them for her?

His brow arched. "Shy?"

She kept her head down, the tips of her ears crimson.

"You weren't this reserved when I washed them for you before," he chuckled darkly.

Memories surfaced—each time she suffered menstrual cramps, he'd personally handwash her intimates. His head bent, slender fingers moving through soap suds with the care reserved for treasured artifacts.

"That was different..."

"How?" He stepped closer abruptly, eyes darkening. "Did you change, or did I?"

She bit her lip, retreating—only for his hand to clamp on her shoulder.

Through the thin chiffon, he could trace the outline of her straps with perfect clarity.

"Take it off yourself, or shall I help?" His voice dropped to a rough whisper.

"You're being unreasonable—"

In her struggle, a button popped free.

The blouse slipped off one shoulder, revealing pearlescent skin. The black strap accentuated her delicate collarbones like a masterfully sculpted artwork.

Ethan's Adam's apple bobbed.

Familiar recollections surged—in moments of passion, he'd always marked that flawless expanse. Too exquisite not to claim.