The steam clung to the ceiling in heavy, grey clouds, slowly dissipating as they finally stepped out of the shower. The transition from the scorching water to the cool air of the bathroom sent a shiver through Julian’s frame, and Elias was immediately there, wrapping a plush, oversized towel around Julian’s shoulders.
They stood in silence for a moment, the only sound the rhythmic drip of the showerhead. The air was thick with the scent of sandalwood and the lingering electricity of their collision.
Julian looked up at Elias, his hair plastered to his forehead, his eyes still slightly glazed. "You're staring again."
Elias didn't look away. "I can't help it. I've spent a decade imagining exactly how you'd look in this light."
Julian let out a soft, breathy laugh, leaning his head agains
