Laila found herself turning her body unconsciously, captivated by Cain's natural demeanor. The two now lay close to each other, facing one another. Perhaps due to the dimness of the room, their expressions were not clearly visible. Yet, now that she met his gaze, the awkwardness dissipated, and anticipation arose within her. Trusting him, she felt no unease even in this posture.

"Tell me, a frightening tale," she said.

"And now you're not scared?" Cain inquired, crossing his arms, his features not entirely discernible, but the glimmer in his eyes was evident.

"No, I'm not scared," she replied.

"Why?"

"That's... well..."

Why indeed. A smile involuntarily graced her lips. She had been chased away from an unfavorable situation, and upon arriving, an unforeseen event occurred. The current situation of lying face to face with Cain and having this conversation was extraordinary. Yet, even so, she felt no fear.

"Because you're here beside me."

You, who always protect me, are here. Despite being a contractual couple, you have looked after me like a friend, like family, and sometimes like a lover whom I have never met before.

Cain occasionally had delayed reactions to her responses, and this moment was no exception. Though quick in his calculations, it seemed he was slow in deciphering others' thoughts. After hearing her reply, he paused for a few seconds and then burst into laughter. The sound of his laughter, more breath than noise, shattered the silence, ringing out clear and joyful. His crossed arms and shoulders trembled as he displayed evident delight.

"Why is that?" Laila wondered, perplexed, but captivated by his laughter. She continued observing him, enjoying the sight. After a brief pause, he stopped laughing and stared at Laila.

"Do you think I'll always protect you?" he asked.

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"What do you mean?" she queried, unable to grasp his question.

"Do you think I'll be there for you, watching over you?"

"Yes?"

"Then let's put it to the test."

"What do you mean?"

Laila didn't understand Cain's question and asked.

Cain's lips remained twisted, but the atmosphere had subtly changed. It was from this moment that Laila's heart began to waver. As he concealed his true feelings and summoned tension, she could only swallow her fear and remain silent. Suddenly, her heartbeat resonated louder than before.

In an instant, his arm slipped beneath her pillow. As the pillow and her head rose simultaneously, she felt the firmness of his arm beneath the softness. Cain's other hand slid past Laila's waist, encircling her lower back.

"C-Cain," gasped Laila, clutching his pajama shirt's front button. This was the first time she had witnessed such a sight, and she had not anticipated this situation. Though not menacing, it frightened her, and for another reason, her chest fluttered. The fireplace contained only embers, yet the air grew warmer. Her mouth felt dry. Unconsciously, Laila extended her tongue to moisten her parched lips.

Cain's fingertips extended beside her head, gently brushing her cheek.

"Innocent or fearless..." murmured the deep timbre of his voice. It sounded like a soliloquy and a warning directed at her.

"What do you mean..."

"Let's sleep together because it's okay. Don't be reckless with men."

As he spoke, Cain's fingertips softly caressed her cheek. Each touch left a lingering trace that sent shivers down her spine. The feather-like sensation was slow and tender, making it all the more provocative.

She didn't misunderstand the meaning behind his words. However, she couldn't discern the intent behind his actions. She understood that this was an extremely precarious moment, whether his behavior was a joke or genuine. She needed to halt here. If she refused, Cain would stop. Yet, despite knowing this, she was incapable of moving. Her body and mind recognized that they did not wish to resist.

Laila's chest began to rise and fall rapidly.

"Why were you so tense?" she asked, struggling to catch her breath. She was on edge, but somehow, she didn't want to reveal her trembling appearance.

"I wasn't," Cain replied.

Laila managed to answer with a strained breath. Although she was incredibly tense, she didn't want to appear frightened.