Chapter 64 As The Lather Built

• As the lather built up, Antonio massaged it into his skin, taking care to clean the cuts on his knuckles. The soap stung slightly, but he welcomed the sensation. It was a reminder of his physical reality, a grounding contrast to the tumult of his thoughts. He ran his hands over his chest, his abs, feeling the tension slowly ebb away with each stroke.
• He then turned his attention to his hair, working the shampoo into a thick lather. The scent was refreshing, a mix of mint and eucalyptus that cleared his mind a little. He massaged his scalp, letting the shampoo cleanse away the sweat and dirt. As he rinsed it out, he felt a small sense of renewal.
• Antonio stood under the spray a while longer, letting the water cascade over him, washing away the soap and the remnants of his breakdown. He tilted his head back, letting the water run down his face, his eyes closed. For a few moments, he allowed himself to simply exist, the water a soothing, constant presence.