Li Fei and Julie's Fierce Battle at the Bathhouse! Bulls March Onward!

"Do you know how to play?" he asked.

A flicker of surprise crossed Julie's eyes, followed by an intrigued smile. "Of course. My father taught me when I was little. But don't expect me to go easy on you just because you're a superstar."

The chessboard was laid out between them. Without the clamor of the court or the pursuit of flashing cameras, the small private room seemed to become an isolated space all its own. The only sounds left in the air were the crisp clacks of pieces landing on the board and their occasional murmured exchanges.

Li Fei's style of play was just like his game on the court—calm, composed, methodical, carrying an immovable, mountain-like pressure with every move.

Julie, on the other hand, played unpredictably, often producing unexpected brilliant moves full of aggression.

It was a closely matched contest, as well as a silent exchange.

Their gazes met over the chessboard, as though they could see straight into each other's deepest thoughts.

As time passed, the atmosphere in the room gradually became more subtle.

The lingering warmth of the steam, the fragrance of essential oils, and the unique scents emanating from their bodies mingled and fermented in the air.

When Julie's "queen" charged straight ahead and checkmated Li Fei's "king," she smiled triumphantly. Her emerald eyes sparkled as though they held hidden stars.

"Checkmate. I won."

Li Fei looked at her playful yet alluring smile. Rather than showing any frustration at losing, he smiled as well.

He reached out and gently touched her cheek, his fingertips gliding across her smooth skin.

"You really are impressive." His voice was low and magnetic.

Julie's breath caught slightly, and a flush instantly spread across her cheeks.

She did not dodge, allowing his fingers to wander over her face.

The distance