The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet novel Chapter 1148

Beatrice flashed a knowing smile before walking away. To her, it seemed crystal clear that Alaric and Hertha were an item, and it set her mind at ease.

Angelina, on the other hand, was far from convinced. She found it hard to accept the idea that Alaric truly had feelings for Hertha. Could her son, the perennial playboy, have really planned to settle down? Was he truly smitten enough to forsake all others for just one woman?

No, Angelina couldn't buy it. She had a nagging suspicion that something was amiss. So, instead of leaving, she lingered by the door, eavesdropping.

"Sorry, I'll be more careful next time," Alaric apologized to Hertha, his voice a husky rasp through the steamy air.

Hertha had just finished berating Alaric for turning the shower too cold. Hearing his strained voice, she instinctively took a step back, sensing danger.

"Next time? I've had enough trouble for today," Hertha said, avoiding his gaze while inching backwards.

The bathroom atmosphere was thick with steam, a sultry mist that seemed to weave an invisible web between them. The warm water was supposed to cool things down, but Hertha felt the heat rising—not just within her, but within the whole room.

Hertha's heart raced out of rhythm, pounding faster and faster.

Alaric noticed that Hertha had stepped on a soap. He reached out swiftly, "Watch out!"

"Ah!" But he was a moment too late. Hertha's feet slipped, and her whole body started falling backward.

Alaric caught her, and to prevent her head from hitting the hard tile floor, he twisted, taking the brunt of the fall on his own back, with Hertha landing on top of him.

"Ouch!" Hertha was dazed from the fall, her face pressed against something warm. Wincing from the pain, she lifted her head and realized she had buried her face right between Alaric's legs!

Hertha lifted her head, her face burning with embarrassment. If word of this got out, her reputation would be tarnished forever!