I wanted to leave this place. Caution was key, and I wondered if I'd been too vulnerable around him.

Atlas paused and looked at me. "What's the matter? Am I that scary to you?"

My face was flushed as I asked, "Who said I'm scared?"

Although I put on a tough face, I was in shambles.

"If you were more cautious around that scumbag, you wouldn't be in this state!" He said, "Don't worry. I won't do anything you're uncomfortable with. Unless you want me to..."

Atlas remained indifferent to my pleading eyes.

"Lie down! You'll feel better soon." His tone softened. "Do you want me to make you?"

There was no escaping this ordeal. Good intentions had led me into an awkward spot, and I felt helpless.

As if under a spell, I reclined and allowed him to unbutton my shirt. He was precise and gentle when applying the ointment, but my muscles were tense.

He murmured, "Relax. Next time, if you can't win, run. It's not shameful. Take a deep breath and strike hard to ensure your safety. A strong c