The steam thickened around the hot spring, curling in lazy tendrils that blurred the edges of the clearing. The water bubbled softly, its warmth seeping into their skin, loosening muscles and inhibitions alike.
Mandira's eyes narrowed at Shennong's bold invitation, a mix of amusement and challenge flickering across her face. Romina, still half-submerged, her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, darted her gaze between them, her breath catching at the sudden shift in the air.
"Bold words, Shennong," Mandira said, her voice low and teasing, though there was an edge of curiosity in it. She shifted, the water rippling around her full curves as she leaned forward slightly, her purple hair clinging to her shoulders like wet silk. "You think you can just waltz in here and make demands?"
