Chapter 173: Bathing Time With Seraphina

The journey back to Everhart Manor was a swift and serene one, though that wasn't entirely surprising, given Seraphina's immense power.

With her buffing the horse, they glided across the Mortimer territory with such speed that it felt more like floating than riding.

The world passed them by in a blur, and thanks to her aura, they encountered no monsters or bandits.

The mere presence of Seraphina, a Third-Class Awakened, sent ripples through the land, making even the bravest threats steer clear of them.

All the while, Seraphina held onto Adrian, her arms wrapped tightly around his waist, her face pressed softly against his back.

The warmth of her body was comforting, and the bond between them deepened with each passing mile.

Seraphina, for the first time, allowed herself to experience such closeness without hesitation.

She had never imagined that she would enjoy something so simple as holding onto someone during a ride—especially someone as precious to her as Adrian.

As they crossed from Mortimer territory and into the outskirts of Everhart territory, the sky began to dim.

Adrian hadn't anticipated arriving so early; he had thought they'd make it home by the next morning, but Seraphina's incredible buffs had allowed them to arrive just before nightfall.

He shook his head in mild disbelief at the absurdity of her strength. Not only had she bolstered the horse, but her aura had kept any threats at bay.

The power of a Third-Class Awakened was awe-inspiring, and Adrian couldn't help but feel excitement for the day when he, too, would reach that level.

"I can't believe we made it back so quickly, it's all thanks to my beautiful wife," Adrian murmured, a bit of awe still laced in his tone as they approached the hidden entrance to the manor grounds.

Seraphina's lips curved into a pleased smile, though Adrian couldn't see it from his position. "Now you have realized this lady's charm," she replied, her voice carrying a playful edge.

They entered through the hidden passage, avoiding the main gate entirely.  It was a precaution Adrian  took as he didn't want any unwanted attention from spies that were definitely planted in his territory.

As they dismounted the horse and began walking toward the entrance, Adrian let out a soft sigh.

"Well, I hope no one noticed had noticed our absence," he said, half to himself.

Seraphina chuckled, her grip still firm around his arm. "You think too little of me, dear husband." She smirked.

"I erected a barrier around the manor before we left. No one would have been able to detect our departure or our arrival."

Adrian blinked, taken aback. "Wait... you did what?"

"I created a barrier," Seraphina repeated casually, as if it were the simplest thing in the world. "It ensures that no one outside of the manor can sense what's happening inside. I didn't want anyone spying on us while we were away."

Adrian stared at her, incredulous. "Why didn't you tell me about that? I had no idea you could do that so easily."

Seraphina's smirk widened as she leaned in closer, her voice sultry. "Because, dear husband, I like to keep you on your toes."

Adrian couldn't help but chuckle, shaking his head in amusement. "Of course you do." His hand slipped around her waist, pulling her close. He kissed the top of her head gently.

"You never cease to amaze me, Aunt—sorry, I mean… my wife."

Seraphina's eyes sparkled with mischief as she whispered, "Speaking of keeping you on your toes, how about we take a bath together? It's been a long ride, and I'd love to unwind... with you."

Since the time limit of the chamber was tomorrow morning, he had nothing to do for now. Might as well as take a bath with her and have fun with her all night.

Besides she had been so jealous yesterday, he felt he might as well focus solely on her tonight and assure her no matter what, he loves her and all other women equally. They hold equal places in his heart.

Adrian raised an eyebrow, smirking as he pulled her even closer, his lips brushing against her ear. "How could I refuse such an offer? Of course, I'll bath with my beautiful wife." He pinched her nose playfully, eliciting a light giggle from her. "And don't worry, tonight, I'll focus solely on you."

His promise made Seraphina's heart flutter, though she kept her usual composed demeanor.

He looked at him with affection in her eyes, then tilted his head slightly down to capture her lips in a tender kiss.

The kiss was gentle yet full of emotion, a reflection of the bond they were now sharing—a bond far deeper than mere family ties.

It was a connection born of trust, understanding, and the powerful emotions that had grown between them.

Breaking the kiss, Adrian turned toward the entrance of the manor, his voice commanding but still warm. "Jade, Lily, prepare our clothes. We'll need fresh garments for after the bath."

Two maids, who had been awaiting orders, quickly bowed and scurried off to fulfill their duties.

Adrian then turned back to Seraphina, offering his arm as they headed toward the manor's lavish bathhouse.

The bath in Everhart Manor was a grand space, complete with steaming pools of water, soft lighting, and fragrant oils that filled the air with soothing scents.

As they entered, Adrian couldn't help but admire the elegance of the room, though his focus remained mostly on Seraphina.

She was already starting to undo her robes, her movements graceful and deliberate. Adrian watched her, a soft smile playing on his lips as he removed his own clothes, taking in the sight of her bare skin glowing in the soft light of the bathhouse.

Once they were both undressed, Seraphina slipped into the water first, sighing contentedly as the warm water enveloped her body. She turned to Adrian, her eyes beckoning him to join her.

"Come, husband," she purred softly, her voice filled with warmth. "The water's perfect."

Adrian didn't need any more encouragement. He slid into the pool beside her, the heat of the water immediately soothing his muscles, though he was more focused on the beautiful woman beside him than the bath itself.

For a few moments, they sat in comfortable silence, the gentle ripples of the water creating a soothing backdrop as they relaxed together.

Seraphina, still feeling the lingering joy from their ride, scooted closer to Adrian, resting her head against his shoulder.

"I don't want this to end," she whispered, her voice soft and vulnerable.

Adrian wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close as he kissed the top of her head. "It doesn't have to," he murmured. "We have all the time in the world."

Seraphina smiled at his words, feeling the warmth of his embrace and the depth of his sincerity. For the first time in a long time, she felt truly at peace—like she had finally found her place in the world, by Adrian's side.

After what felt like an eternity of contentment, Seraphina stirred, her thoughts returning to the manor. "What about your little lover, Chris? Aren't you going to send someone to fetch her from the secret house?"

Adrian chuckled softly, his hand trailing gently down her back. "Not tonight. Tonight, my focus is on you, my beautiful wife." His voice was low, filled with affection. "Besides, I promised, didn't I?"

Seraphina's heart swelled at his words, and she closed her eyes, allowing herself to fully relax in his embrace. For tonight, she would enjoy this moment—this connection with Adrian.