Stepping forward, Axel gently brushed her hands aside. When she lifted her face to his, he said, “I’m only going to help, nothing more.” She nodded, letting her hands fall to her side. Once he had her sweat-laden clothes peeled off of her, he led her into the shower, keeping the water lukewarm. Then he quickly stripped off his shoes, socks, and shirt before stepping in beside her. She leaned against him the entire time he washed her hair, whispering instructions about what hair products to use and how.