Seraphina stirred slightly, letting out a faint mumble, and his heart stopped.
He froze, holding his breath, watching as her eyes fluttered briefly before she shifted deeper into the couch. A small sigh escaped her lips, and she stilled again.
He exhaled quietly, continuing his task, a small, tender smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
When he was finished, her hair was no longer wet, and her breathing remained slow and steady. He leaned back, studying her face. Even now, with her guard down, there was a hint of sadness in the curve of her lips, a shadow of whatever haunted her.
Adolphus brushed his fingers lightly over her hair, his expression softening further. “You drive me crazy, little hunter,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.
He stood and took the damp towel back to his room, glancing at her one last time before disappearing into the shadows.
She’s safe for now, he thought, his heart aching with both relief and longing. And that’s enough for tonight.