Chapter 171 Eager To Go Deep Down

• Hazel and Francisco had shared a quiet dinner, with Hazel constantly searching Francisco's face for any hint of his thoughts. He remained unreadable, his usual composure in place, giving away nothing about whether he had watched the footage of her confrontation with Lilith.
• After dinner, Hazel found herself on the porch, staring into the night, her mind racing with questions. Had Francisco seen the footage? What did he think? The uncertainty gnawed at her. She was deep in thought when she felt Francisco's arms wrap around her waist from behind, his touch both familiar and unsettling. He nuzzled her neck, planting a soft kiss on her cheek, and asked, "What are you thinking?"
• Hazel forced a smile and turned to face him, her hands resting on his broad shoulders.