Cassandra's long eyelashes fluttered as she woke, ready to rise. But she suddenly hissed, drawing in a sharp breath.

"Ow… it hurts… it really hurts."

Yesterday had been her first time, after all.

Ray smiled faintly. "Take it slow. Let's eat breakfast first."

She was a top‑tier baddie, for sure. He wouldn't spoil her to the heavens, but he genuinely liked her and would treat her well.

Out here, everything had to be kept simple. There was no point in brushing teeth or washing up now—they coul