Scrub My Back*

Mari sat on the low stool, her hands diligently scrubbing Haruto's broad back. Her cheeks remained flushed as she worked. 

The scent of soap filled the warm air, mingling with the faint aroma of the cedar bath. Haruto let out a satisfied sigh, enjoying her delicate yet firm touch that felt almost like a massage. 

"Mari, how are you so good at this? Honestly, it feels like you're a pro masseuse," he said, breaking the silence and throwing a teasing glance over his shoulder. 

Mari chuckled, her nervousness easing slightly. "Ah, it's probably because I scrub Koko a lot. He's such a silly dog—always rolling in the mud." 

Her laugh was soft but genuine, the tension in her shoulders easing as she worked. 

Haruto grinned. "So what you're saying is, I remind you of a dog?" 

Mari paused for a moment before smirking. "Well… maybe a little. You're kind of like my dad's Doberman—big, sleek, and always acting like you own the place."