You watched the liquid wax swelling at the edge of the burning candle. Thick, heavy drop formed, threatening to fall any second now. You took in a shaky breath, your bare stomach shuddering, goosebumps blooming on your skin. The anticipation was torture.

Phil didn’t move the candle, he was patient. He kept the candle steady between his fingers, slightly tipped. The suspension was part of the fun. You saw a subtle smile on his face, shadows dancing across his features, brought to life by the flickering, golden glow of the candle.

Finally, the wax fell.

It landed on your stomach, just slightly above your belly button. You inhaled sharply at the sensation, bordering on painful, almost too hot to handle. But it only lasted a few short seconds. The wax hardened, cooling down, and you exhaled slowly.

“Good. You’re handling it so well, cariño.” Alejandro whispered, running his fingers through your hair. You kept your head on his lap, his presence and touch comforting. But at the same time, he was the one making sure you don’t flinch away, that you keep still.

Hot wax dribbled down from the candle, splattering across your bare skin, making your toes curl.

Phil and Alejandro exchanged looks above your nude body, staring daggers at each other. Ever since Las Almas, the hate between them was palpable. And yet… their love for you seemed stronger than that.

Phil’s hand travelled down from your stomach, over your hip, and towards your thigh. He wrapped his fingers around your flesh, fingertips digging into your skin, and he pushed your legs open. The candle he was holding now lingered just above your inner thigh. You twitched instinctively as another fat drop of wax threatened to fall.

“Shh… keep still.” Alejandro whispered, caressing your cheek. “You’re alright, preciosa.”

Again, Phil waited. He was in no rush. He held the candle still, his other hand firm against your thigh. You watched as the wax slowly pooled at the very edge of the candle. It fell. Hot splash against your inner thigh, dribbling down your skin.