Chapter 41

Soon, the game began.

At first, Calla was in front, with Mercer behind her. The balloon was wedged between her bottom and his abdomen. This immediately drew laughter from the crowd.

However, this method proved too slow, so they changed tactics. They faced each other, and the balloon was now squeezed between their bellies as they held hands to synchronize their movements.

Calla's hands were enveloped by his warm, large hands. Their faces were so close that they nearly touched.

Suddenly, she felt a flutter in her chest, and her face flushed. She didn't dare look up at his eyes. His warm breath brushed against her cheek, making her feel a little ticklish.

However, she had no time to dwell on these feelings. Even the slightest lapse in attention would cause the balloon between their bodies to drop.

Encouraging cheers filled the air around her. Coming in last meant facing a penalty, so she was determined not to lose.

Their coordination was quite good. Though not first, they maintaine