Chapter 156: Lingering scent (2)

Damian turned from the dying firelight and made his way into the bath chamber, the hush of the room folding around him like velvet. The air was thick with clean steam now, no trace of floral undertones, no cloying sweetness. Just the scent of warmth and slate.

He stripped methodically. Undid each button without pause. Peeled off the last of his clothing with quick, controlled hands. His robe, his undershirt, trousers, even his socks, all of it dropped into the burn pile beside the door of the bathroom. 

He had held himself in check while Gabriel was present. He had kept the worst of his rage hidden behind measured words and sharp glances. Gabriel did not deserve his temper, not the sharp taste or the weight. Not after everything.

But that didn't mean it wasn't there.

He sank into the bath like a man bracing for war.