The afterglow of the sunset burned like fire, painting the clouds into a dazzling canvas of violet and rose. Dusk was near, and the last strands of sunlight filtered through the window, spilling into the room.
Bathed in that golden glow, Rize's refined, delicate side profile seemed to shimmer, radiating beauty.Every frown, every smile, every subtle motion carried a dangerous allure that could pull anyone in.
Seeing this breathtaking sight, Hayashi finally understood why kings in old tales would throw away their kingdoms for the sake of beauty. If someone truly looked this devastating, no man could be blamed — it was only human nature.
And thankfully, Hayashi wasn't born as some ancient ruler, or history books would've painted him as the worst of them all. Otherwise, compared to him, every infamous tyrant in history would have looked wise and virtuous.
"What are you staring at?"
Rize let out a soft laugh, amusement flickering in her eyes.
"Didn't you say you have to make physical contact to transmit that power of yours?"
"Yeah, that's right."
Hayashi snapped back to his senses and quickly wrapped his arms around her slender waist.
"Mmm—ah…"
Rize let out an involuntary moan, her flawless face instantly flushed scarlet.
"Could you not make that kind of noise?"
Black lines formed across Hayashi's face, at a loss for words.
Before, when she had only made sounds, it was one thing.
But now, given their current position—with her sitting like this—it was impossible not to misinterpret.
And if he was being honest… he was misinterpreting.
"What a wonderful smell… let me try some~"
Rize's eyes lit up the moment she caught the aroma of food.
Without hesitation, she picked up her chopsticks and began tasting the dishes.
The soft, savory flavors melted across her tongue, spreading satisfaction through her senses. She chewed lightly, her eyes widening with delight.
This taste—it was even better than the Swiss Roll she had eaten earlier!
Her heart brimming with joy, Rize held the bowl in one hand and chopsticks in the other, savoring every bite.
That satisfaction and happiness spilled across her features, her expression softened with enjoyment.
Hayashi couldn't help but chuckle at the sight.
Who would've thought—the infamous predator who killed without blinking, Rize, could also look this cute and docile?
Truly, no one could resist the temptation of delicious food…
His gaze softened. Inwardly, he prayed she would finish quickly—because his self-control was hanging by a thread.
It had been hard enough already. Now, with her slight movements pressing against him, it was becoming unbearable.
Thankfully, she soon finished every last bite, leaving the plates spotless.
"I'm full. Thanks for the meal~"
Rize dabbed her lips elegantly, her refined face glowing with contentment.
This food… it was far beyond anything she had ever imagined.
Unbelievable, really—humans enjoyed this kind of delicacy every day. It was almost enviable.
"Did you get enough?"
Hayashi asked, eyeing the plates, not a drop of oil left.
"Yes, I'm satisfied. Thank you, Hayashi~"
Rize nodded, lightly patting her flat belly—though now it bulged just slightly, like that of a pregnant woman.
But this time, it wasn't Hayashi filling her in that way. It was his food.
"Will I get another chance to eat something like this in the future?"
Her lips parted slightly, tongue brushing over them as if still chasing the lingering flavor.
"I don't mind."
Hayashi shrugged casually.
He only needed to transmit the Horse Talisman's power to her.
As for the food—why bother cooking next time? If it came to it, he could just take her out to eat.
"That sounds exciting… and delightful~"
Rize tilted her head, her eyes gleaming with mischief and a hazy allure.
Combined with her enchanting, delicate face, the sight was devastatingly seductive. Cute charm had nothing on sheer, raw sensuality.
Just as Hayashi was caught in that thought, her pale hands suddenly tugged at his tie.
"Earlier, you let me taste human food…"
Rize turned, straddling his lap, her long legs curling around his waist.
"So of course, I have to repay you for that kindness~"
Repay me?
Looking into her flushed face and hungry eyes, Hayashi instantly understood what she meant.
"But the doctor said you shouldn't do strenuous activity right after eating…"
Hayashi tried to explain the dangers of post-meal exercise, offering her a lecture on health.
"Otherwise, it could cause—"
But before he could finish, his lips were silenced.
Rize yanked his tie, leaning close, her sultry smile brushing against his skin.
"Stop wasting words. It's my turn now~"