She lay on the bed, caught between belief and skepticism, her eyes fixed on the door.

But soon, her eyelids grew heavy. Despite her exhaustion, a persistent ringing in her ears kept sleep at bay.

After struggling to find sleep for a while, she was just beginning to feel a bit sleepy when the sound of the door creaking open shook her awake.

Alicia's eyes flew open, wide with surprise.

She watched as Caden silently entered the room.

He didn't switch on the light and directly climbed into the bed in the darkness, gathering her into his embrace.

Alicia blurted out, "So much for your promises."

Caden remained silent.

Caden tightened his grip around Alicia.

"I take my promises seriously, but today has slipped away. We'll begin anew tomorrow."

Alicia let out a scornful laugh.

She was aware of his underlying motives, but instead of rejecting him, she merely turned away.

Caden enveloped her from behind.

Yawning widely, Alicia found that her eyelids began to droop. “I thought you were gone for good when you stormed out earlier, just as I was about to shower."

"I needed to take out the trash," Caden explained. "Your maid is very experienced; I didn't want an awkward encounter if she saw me later. And did you feel relief or disappointment when I left?" he inquired.

Before she could answer, he cut her off and said, “Actually, never mind. I'd rather not know."

Rolling her eyes, Alicia felt her fatigue deepen.

Though she yearned for sleep, his closeness was unsettling, especially with something pressing against her.

She shifted her hips slightly.

Noticing this, Caden adjusted his position.

"It's been unruly lately. Is it too much to ask for some understanding?" His tone was serious, yet the comment felt inappropriate.

Alicia exhaled slowly. "The bed is spacious enough. There's no need to cling so tightly."

"How am I supposed to sleep without holding you?" he countered.

Realizing that his approach was off, he softened. “I'm the one restless, needing to hold you."