Sophia Sullivan took slow steps toward the man.
A sudden night breeze carried biting coldness, dispelling the stifling heat in the air.
"Rumors say Zephyr never competes internationally, but domestically, he's an unmatched legend." Her voice was so soft it nearly scattered with the wind.
She raised her hand, fingertips brushing against the cold mask.
"Perhaps we've truly met before."
The silver mask covered most of the man's face, revealing only deep, dark eyes.
That gaze felt too familiar—hypnotic, luring her to peel away this disguise.
A deep, warning voice resonated through the night: "Zephyr's identity never reveals its true face."
The rich timbre echoed in the darkness.
He was reminding her of the price for uncovering secrets.
It might bring calm, or perhaps... utter ruin.
Sophia looked up to see slender fingers wrapping around her wrist.
"So what?"
She chuckled, her gaze lingering on the crimson mole at his neck.
Her proof of recognition.
Under his intense stare, Sophia rose on her toes, leaning closer to the silver mask.
"Rules are meant to be broken. Otherwise, how dull."
With her free hand, she swiftly removed the mask: "Don't you agree, Mr. Sullivan?"
The mask fell away, revealing striking, chiseled features.
Breathtakingly handsome.
"Seems I've won again."
Sophia's tone was confident, laced with victorious delight.
She waved the mask playfully, but a cool breeze brushed her face.
The wind lifted her golden hair, unveiling her exquisite features.
Distant cheers from the competition roared, yet time here seemed frozen.
"Ms. Sullivan, we meet again."
Their eyes locked, Ethan Sullivan's gaze shining like constellations.
Simultaneously, they removed their voice changers.
"Mr. Sullivan, you're full of surprises."
"That's my line," Ethan murmured.
A familiar fragrance lingered between them, calming his restless heart.
They stood so close he could see the rose-tinted gloss on her lips.
Vibrant, dewy, soft.
...The very thing he craved most in moments of losing control.
The air grew thick with tension.
Sophia felt his predatory gaze—dark, dangerous.
Ensnaring.
She instinctively stepped back.
"You go ahead. I'll change and meet you at the Sullivan estate later."
Perhaps it was the intoxicating moonlight making her pulse race uncontrollably.
Without waiting for his reply, she turned away.
Sophia knew something was wrong with her.
She kept wanting to see him unravel, breathless.
"I must be insane, or my period's coming soon."
She laughed at herself, warning her heart to stay guarded.
They were the same—Ethan and her—never staying for anyone.
After each encounter, they'd silently pretend nothing happened.
So she had to restrain herself. Cut losses in time.