**Chapter 40: You Shouldn’t Dress Like This** Just as Ethan made his way towards the bedroom door, a sudden movement caught his eye. Janet emerged from the bathroom, clad in nothing but a bath towel that clung to her like a second skin. The moment their gazes locked, an electrifying tension crackled in the air between them, both momentarily frozen in a wordless exchange. Ethan slipped one hand into his trouser pocket, casually balancing a steaming mug in the other. Silence stretched around them, heavy and palpable, as if the world beyond had vanished. Truth be told, Ethan was at a loss for words, his breath hitching in his throat. He couldn't help but notice the delicate curve of her collarbone, the bath towel barely concealing her soft, inviting skin. His heart raced as he gulped, his Adam’s apple bobbing nervously. As if sensing his lingering gaze, Janet's cheeks ignited, a rosy blush washing over her as she instinctively turned to retreat into her room, desperate to dismiss the moment. But before she could escape, Ethan's hand shot out, wrapping around her wrist, pulling her back into his embrace with surprising ease. Her skin felt warm and velvety against his, stirring an instinctive urge within him to drift his fingers across her smooth surface. “Honey,” he teased, his voice low and playful, “you shouldn’t dress like this and roam around the house.” Janet's mouth opened, poised to retort, yet the words evaporated at the tip of her tongue, leaving her momentarily speechless. “Wh-what are you talking about? I just forgot to grab my clothes! Let go of me!” She protested, crossing her arms defensively over her chest, shooting him a glance filled with equal parts indignation and something softer. But Ethan only tightened his hold, drawing her even closer until she could feel the warmth of his breath brushing against the nape of her neck, igniting a flurry of butterflies in her stomach. The scent of her fresh body wash enveloped him, a reminiscent aroma of the sanctuary she called her room. “Don’t worry. I won’t bite,” he coaxed, the playful smirk on his lips betraying his intentions. “Now, let me accompany you back to your room, alright?” He pinched her lightly at the waist, his gaze scrutinizing her as he asked, “Why are you shaking? Are you cold?” Janet bit down on her lower lip, fighting against the involuntary shivers that coursed through her at his playful touch. “It… it’s improper for a man to touch a woman like this. Just let me go, Ethan. Stop teasing me!” “What am I teasing you about? We’re married, after all. It’s only natural for us to be close like this,” he countered with mock seriousness. Then suddenly, his demeanor shifted; he released her to scan her body for any signs of injury. “Are you really okay?” Her cheeks flared with heat, a mix of embarrassment and confusion stirring within her. She shielded herself, arms crossing protectively over her chest to obscure him from seeing the very thing that captivated his attention. “I’m fine!” she exclaimed a little too hastily, desperation seeping into her voice. “Just let me go back to my room!” She squirmed against him, wrestling futilely for liberation, all while acutely aware that with every movement, her towel threatened to betray her. “Come on, we’ve kissed before. Why are you still so shy?” Ethan’s words dripped with teasing mischief as the corners of his mouth curled into a smile. “You’re young and beautiful," he continued, his tone serious now, "and a prime target for trouble. I can’t always be your knight in shining armor.” The image of Janet, vulnerable and silently weeping, flashed through Ethan’s mind, igniting a protective fire within him. He winced at the memory, regretting not having dealt with that lecherous man more decisively. Her doe-like eyes met his, and a timid nod came from her, a silent promise of understanding. Suddenly, a smile broke through her flustered anguish, flattered by his compliment. “Okay, okay. Can you let me go now?” Janet pouted, her face still a deep shade of crimson. The towel, now feeling dangerously precarious, slipped further in its hold around her. Ethan lingered, his captivating gaze tracing her flushed cheeks before daring another glance at her soft curves. In that moment, rational thoughts slipped away; all he could focus on was the gorgeous woman before him. With a voice low and gravelly, he breathed, “Do you want me to come inside with you?” A startled shriek tumbled from her lips as she pushed against him, eyes wide with indignation. “No! You bastard! Haven’t you heard a word I’ve said?” Without waiting for a reply, she darted into her room, slamming the door shut behind her. Left in a daze, Ethan stood still, his heart pounding wildly. He could hardly process what had just happened as the towel floated down, escaping Janet’s grasp. The sight was one he had not meant to witness, igniting a rush of heat within him that felt all-consuming. He leaned heavily against the wall, tugging at his collar as though it constricted his breath, the moment stretching into a chaotic swirl of confusion and desire.