EPILOGUE

“You're still watching that?"

Claire looked behind her from where she was curled up like a ball on the sofa. Axel stood by the pillar, his hair dripping wet. He was barechested, and Claire had a full view of his godlike body. It was one she had worshipped the night before, and the memories flooded her head. She felt her face go hot.

“Why not?" She blustered. "As much as I am concerned about the trend of animal abuse, I get a kick from watching you tell them off.”

Axel scowled at her. "That's a very mean thing to say.” His face brightened instantly. "I'm not complaining, though. Why are you blushing?”

Claire touched her red face. He was coming closer to peer at her curiously. She squeezed her eyes shut.

“You should put some clothes on."

Claire felt the sofa dip where he sat down beside her.

“No." His breath tickled her face. “I would rather not."

Claire rolled her eyes, but kept them closed. "Fine, whatever.”

He grabbed her jaw and roughly pulled her against him. "Look at me.”

Her eye