A Silent Slap

Ren exchanged a knowing glance with the cub, which was still giggling softly. He decided to give Terim a few more moments to compose himself before calling out again.

"Take your time," Ren called out reassuringly and went back to the kitchen with a smile.

Instead of anything fancy, he cooked a simple home-cooked meal. He filled the bowls and carried them back to the bed. Placing a small table on the bed, the makeshift dining table was ready.

Terim came out of the bathroom nearly five minutes after the earlier knock. His face was wet. Some water droplets clinging to his eyelashes, glided down his cheek as he blinked.

Even after washing his face with cold water, his cheeks were still red. Ren motioned in the direction of tissues. Terim expressionlessly followed Ren's direction to get the tissues to dry his face.

Unbeknownst to Terim, Ren couldn't suppress the growing smile in his eyes, especially after noticing Terim's reddening earlobes