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130. “You Play With Fire”

last update Last Updated: 2025-08-31 20:28:49

The corridor was hushed when Aris and Adrea stepped out of the lift. The hour was late enough that the hotel seemed emptied of life, just the faint hum of air-conditioning and the soft tread of their shoes against the plush carpet. Aris carried himself with the same easy confidence he always did, but Adrea felt the weight of the day in her shoulders, in the heaviness of her steps. The hours at the tournament had drained her more than she had realised, and yet the moment they reached the suite she let out a little breath that felt almost like relief.

Inside, the quiet was welcoming. The city’s bright lights were muted through the thick curtains, and the room’s soft glow made everything seem cocooned, safe. Adrea kicked off her heels by the door and let them fall where they landed.

“I am never wearing those again,” she muttered, bending to rub at her aching feet.

Aris grinned, tossing his jacket over a chair. “That’s what you said last time.”

“Yes, well, I meant it this time.”

He chuckl
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