That scorching afternoon, you stepped outside with a basket full of laundry, heading toward the river like always. Just as you rounded the bend, you crossed paths with Dorothy, her arms full of dirty clothes.

“Heyy!” she chirped, peeking into your basket. “Still washing your own clothes? Look at mine—already doing laundry for my husband and kids. You really should marry soon. Wouldn’t want to end up an old maid, would you?”

You rolled your eyes. “Getting married just to wash clothes for a man and his kids? Hmph. Sounds more like becoming a slave than a wife.”

Dorothy blinked, clearly taken aback. She opened her mouth, maybe to retort, but you’d already turned on your heel and walked away, heat prickling on your neck—not from the sun, but from irritation.

Grumbling under your breath, you changed your course toward the waterfall instead. You didn’t want to run into any more villagers. Or more unwanted advice.

The cool mist greeted you as the trees parted and the sound of rushing water filled the clearing. But what made you stop in your tracks was the man beneath the waterfall.

His back faced you, muscles carved and strong, his body glistening under the sunlight. He looked like a Greek statue. Too perfect, too unreal.

You swallowed hard. Without meaning to, you stared far longer than you should have... until he turned slightly, glancing over his shoulder.

Noticing your presence, he smirked, then turned fully, water trailing down his chest, his wet hair falling partly over his eyes. He must’ve thought you were just a village girl, one of many who came here to wash.

Your face turned bright red. You quickly looked down and were about to leave, but then he spoke, “If you came to wash, don’t mind me. I wouldn’t dare take your place… or would you rather I step out right now?”

He shifted, as if ready to rise from the water.

Your brain screamed—any more movement and you’d see something you really shouldn’t. “N-No! Stay right there!” you shouted, waving your hands frantically.

He laughed, a soft, teasing chuckle that echoed against the stones. “As you wish, my lady. I shall obey… for now.” Then, with a sly glance, he moved aside, giving you space.