The distant rumble of thunder served as a backdrop to their silent intimacy.

In a gentle tone, Waylen expressed, "If Alexis weren't here, I'd hold you close in my arms."

Eventually, Rena managed to drift into slumber somehow.

The only certainty she had was that he never let go of her hand throughout the night.

Early the next morning, when Rena awoke, she met Waylen's deep, penetrating gaze. It was unclear how long he had been watching her.

In her groggy state, Rena murmured softly, “I'll go prepare breakfast for Lexi."

Before she could move, he firmly held her wrist, pulling her closer. By the time Rena was fully aware, she found herself underneath him...

Waylen didn't utter a word.

With a firm grasp on her hands, he restrained her movements and lowered his head to kiss her passionately.

Their lips met in a fervent embrace and the passion lingered...

He whispered into her ear, “The power went out during the night, and the air conditioner wasn't working. You were lying in my bed, dressed like that. Rena... It wasn't really my fault that I was so turned on."

Rena gazed at him, finding his defense ridiculous.

He desired intimacy but, with Alexis right beside them, he refrained from being presumptuous.

Yet, his fingers gently explored under her silk nightdress, provoking a response from Rena.

She couldn't resist biting his shoulder and firmly stating, “Waylen, stop."

His gentle coaxes followed.

“Are you feeling shy? Good girl...

Just be quiet."

Her cheeks flushed and her heart raced.

Traces of his sweat glistened on her neck and the enticing movement of his Adam's apple further kindled her desires. He restrained himself, attempting to exercise control.

However, after years of restraint, the woman he desired now lay beneath him, her allure irresistible. If he continued to hold back, he would not be a man.

Tantalizingly close to her ear, he gently whispered, "Can we give in to our desires?"