When Sabrina withdrew her hand, she brushed against Raul's arm, feeling an immediate chill.

Her thoughts scrambled, unable to resist seeking the source of the cold.

Observing her, Raul cautiously extended his hand.

Sabrina latched onto Raul's hand, pressing it instinctively against her face to lessen her body's heat.

Yet, it wasn't enough. She craved more coldness.

Raul's delight grew, and with newfound courage, he whispered, "Sabrina, don't worry. I'll help you right away.”

As he prepared to undress Sabrina, footsteps sounded outside.

Raul's breath caught in anxiety.

Had Bettie returned?

What should he do?

He hastily lay down, pretending to be asleep as if he'd mistakenly entered the wrong tent.

If someone merely passed by, or if Bettie came back, he could easily explain.

The footsteps drew nearer, halting before the tent and then unzipping it.

Raul's heart sank in disappointment and desperation.

The bonfire wouldn't extinguish so quickly. He hadn't anticipated

Bettie's early return.

His plan failed, and all he could hope for was that Bettie wouldn't notice anything wrong with Sabrina. After tonight, all would be well.

Suddenly, an arm rested on his body.

Raul's heart missed a beat.

Sabrina, feeling as though she were in a sweltering desert, searched instinctively for relief, an oasis.