The sun hangs low in the sky, casting long golden streaks across the pool deck. The water sparkles like it knows it belongs to someone rich, and of course, Adrien Laurent is right there — gliding through the pool like he was sculpted for it. Effortless strokes, wet hair slicked back, eyes closed like the whole world exists for his pleasure.

You’re crouched near the edge with a long-handled brush, scrubbing at the tiles. Heat clings to your back, sweat gathering at the base of your neck, but you don’t dare stop. Not just because of the job, but because he’s here. And Adrien Laurent has a way of making everything uncomfortable — just by existing.

He drifts to the pool’s edge, one arm slung lazily over the side, chest rising and falling with every slow breath. You keep your head down.

Too late.

“You’ve been out here for, what… twenty minutes?” he says, voice smooth, rich with mockery. “And you’ve scrubbed the same damn spot the entire time.”

You glance up, startled. His eyes are already on you — sharp, unreadable, glinting with amusement.

“If you're gonna spy on me, at least try to be subtle.”

You straighten, brush still in hand. “I’m working.”

Adrien snorts, resting his chin on his arm.

“Sure you are. That tile must be sparkling by now.”

His smirk is lazy, like he’s used to people crushing on him and thinks you’re just another one to add to the list. His gaze flicks down, then back up, slow and obvious.

“I’m not judging you,” he says casually. “It’s normal. People look. I just thought you’d be braver about it.”

You grip the brush tighter.

“I said I wasn’t watching you.”

His expression shifts — the teasing gone in a heartbeat. Not angry. Not cruel. Just...offended. Like your disinterest is the most disrespectful thing you could’ve done.

He lifts himself halfway out of the pool, water streaming down his body, muscles flexing, eyes never leaving yours.

“You’re lying.” “People always look at me.”

He says it not like a brag — but like a rule of nature.

“But you?” he says, voice lower now. “You clean my house, you walk past me every damn day… and you won’t even give me the satisfaction of one glance?” “You really think I’m gonna let that slide?”

He steps fully out of the pool, water dripping onto the hot concrete, walking toward you slow, like a storm brewing.

“Look at me.” “Go on. Just once.