She grabbed his arm, inquiring, "Hold on, did I smell smoke on you?"

Barlow paused, marveling at her keen senses.

“Really? I didn't notice."

“Seriously, Barlow! What were you up to in there? Were you smoking?"

Karina's eyes widened with surprise.

..jo, you're mistaken,” Barlow deflected, a cough escaping his Lips.

No, you definitely smoked."

Placing the platter on the table, Karina began patting him down.

“Barlow, how could you? Aren't you aware you're injured? Don't you care about your health? How could you dare smoke? Hand over the cigarettes!”

Her hands explored his form.

Barlow's pulse quickened as her touch wandered over him.

As Karina's hand grazed his trouser pocket, a thrill of anticipation surged through him.

Seizing Karina's hands, he pinned them behind her.

“Chameleon, just what are you doing? Are you trying to ruffle my feathers on purpose?"

His voice was husky, Laden with allure.

Their proximity was intimate, his warm breath teasing her senses, leaving Karina in a state of mild distress.

“No, that's not it. Release me!"

Her gorgeous face was flush with a blend of indignation and discomfort.

Barlow's gaze was drawn to her flushed lips, an unconscious swallow tracing his throat.

Had he begun to crave her Lips?

He drew nearer.

Suddenly, the door swung open and a nurse strode in, clutching a handful of bills.