Chapter: 1510

Norah extended her left hand and playfully tousled Sean's hair. It felt both soft and substantial beneath her fingers, reminiscent of petting a thick-furred dog.

Of course, she kept that comparison to herself, aware that voicing it might lead to his displeasure.

"I missed you too," she cooed.

While she was in Surella, they had stayed connected through nightly video calls, nurturing their relationship despite the distance.

This consistent communication had become a cornerstone of their bond, as Sean had learned from his time in Silverdale. Texting felt too detached, lacking the immediacy and warmth of their voices; only video calls and the occasional embrace could truly bridge the gap between them.

Turning slightly, Norah pressed a kiss to his cheek.

Even fresh from the shower, he carried the distinctive scent of sandalwood-the same one she had captured in the custom perfume, Silver Galaxy. She had crafted it just for him. Back in Glophia, she had prepared several more bottles, ensuring he would not soon run out.

Their gazes locked, a surge of affection filling the space between them, and the room's atmosphere thickened with romance.

Inevitably, their lips met, and clothes-a mere afterthought-drifted to the floor.

Their intimacy was not new; Norah and Sean had been lovers for some time, and it was effortless for him to kindle her desires.

Yet, the reminder that they were in her uncle's house prompted Norah to halt the advance, pushing Sean away with firm resolve. "Stop."

Sean's confusion was palpable; he had been moments from further intimacy, and her abrupt cessation left him bewildered.

Norah averted her gaze, her voice low. "This isn't our home, and my family is nearby. We shouldn't continue this."

Had they been alone in a hotel or their own place, she might have surrendered to the moment.

But the thought of her relatives-her uncle, cousins, and grandfather -all under the same roof, quenched her ardor.

Reading the firmness in her eyes, Sean exhaled a resigned sigh.

Though frustrated, he respected her wishes, enveloping her in a gentle embrace and stroking her back tenderly.

“Fine," he said softly, his voice warm. "I'll just hold you to sleep then."

Both were unclothed, and as Sean held her close, Norah felt his arousal brush against her leg. She looked up at him with a hint of skepticism.

"Can you really sleep?" She attempted to slip from his grasp. "I think you'd be more comfortable in your own room."

It seemed cruel to her that he had to endure the proximity of his attractive girlfriend without the intimacy they both usually shared.

She added, "Besides, men can be unpredictable. You might try to tempt me again."

A shadow crossed Sean's face. "Is that what you think of me?"

Norah nodded.