Someone like him.

"You’ve given me everything I need," I said softly. Then, after a pause, I added, "May I ask you something?"

"Of course," Andin replied.

"Why are you being so kind to me?" I asked, meeting his eyes. "We barely even know each other."

He looked at me for a moment, then gently placed a hand on my shoulder. "I helped you because I know what it feels like when the whole world seems to turn against you," he said. "Maybe someday I’ll tell you the full story. But for now… you’re a beautiful, strong woman. You don’t deserve to be treated like some cheap whore—especially not by people like Dagul."

Hearing that stirred something in me—something warm, something I hadn’t felt in a long time. I leaned in slightly, lowering my voice.

"In that case… I guess I do need one more thing," I whispered. "I need someone like you by my side. A noble, kind, and gentle man."

"Even if I’m human?" he asked, his fingers brushing gently against my cheek.

"Your race doesn’t matter," I murmured, resting my head against his chest. "Right now, I need you. Only you."

Andin wrapped his arms around me, holding me close. We sat there in silence, simply enjoying the moment—no more words needed.

After a few minutes, I suddenly remembered the bath the servant had prepared for me. I tilted my head up and grinned playfully.

"Andin," I said, feigning innocence, "I think I’d like to take that bath now. I could use a third hand to help me soap up… know anyone who might be interested?"