Chapter 98: Leave, Riven
Riven needed to make sure Eli was all right, especially since the story had deviated. He needed to ensure that his bunny would not be bullied.
Riven sighed in contentment, sinking deeper into the warm water as the steam curled around him. The big bathtub was luxurious and spacious, making him feel like he could float away and forget about the chaotic morning. He absentmindedly traced circles on the water’s surface, letting his mind wander.
The water showering from above just made everything better.
The tension from earlier seemed to have faded, and he was grateful for the peace and quiet. He couldn’t deny how good it felt to finally relax his sore muscles after being pulled between Ronan and Soren like a chew toy.
He closed his eyes, letting his thoughts drift, but the creak of the door made his ears twitch. His eyes snapped open, and he glanced over his shoulder to see Soren stepping inside. Riven immediately noticed something was off.
Soren’s usual composed demeanor was absent, replaced by an almost desperate intensity. His jaw was clenched, and his grip on something in his hand was firm—Riven squinted and recognised it. The collar.
Riven’s stomach twisted with an unsettling feeling, and he turned around to face him, brows furrowing. "Soren..." he murmured, trying to read his expression. The collar hung from Soren’s hand, and it was clear what his intentions were. Well, he could not say he did not expect this.
Soren looked like he was chill about it, but he was barely holding on.
Soren’s gaze remained locked onto him, his shiny obsidian eyes almost feverish. His breaths were heavier than usual, and his hand tightened around the collar as if trying to keep himself from trembling.