His Gentle Gaze Novel

Billie Bob Jones never intended to work with the second richest man on Earth, yet after being asked to do a favor for his best friend he found himself in a dilemma. Not only had he caught the attention of the famed billionaire, he had also caught the attention of the most dangerous man on Earth. His simple life of riding horses, competing in rodeos and helping his stepdad Clyde on the ranch gets upturned when he becomes the new prey of the one and only Benedito Goncalo Cruz Pereira.

Vesper, a high school student, carries the heavy burden of trauma and phobia, stemming from the multiple assaults she has witnessed and endured. Her past experiences have left her with debilitating Androphobia (fear of men) and Hephephobia (fear of being touched), making it impossible for her to interact with others, except for her childhood friend, Mia. Vesper's life takes a complicated turn when she catches the attention of the school's most eligible bachelor, Ethan, the son of one of the city's top five influential families. As Ethan's gaze falls upon Vesper, she is convinced that he, like all the others, has ulterior motives for getting close to her. Determined to maintain her distance, Vesper keeps Ethan at arm's length, despite his persistent efforts to win her trust. Meanwhile, Vesper's godbrother, Liam, harbors a deep, unrequited love for her. Liam's feelings are genuine, but Vesper's past traumas have rendered her incapable of reciprocating his emotions. Lyra, Ethan's childhood friend, is caught in the middle, as she secretly harbors feelings for Ethan, further entangling the complex web of relationships. As Vesper navigates her treacherous emotional landscape, she must confront the weight of their gazes – the suffocating attention from Ethan, the longing stares from Liam, and the concerned looks from Mia. Will Vesper find the strength to overcome her phobias and learn to trust again, or will the weight of their gazes crush her? *Genre:* Young Adult, Psychological Thriller, Romance *Themes:* Trauma, Phobia, Trust, Love, Friendship, Self-discovery *Target Audience:* Young adults who enjoy complex, character-driven stories with a touch of psychological suspense.

Completely naked his body pressing in hers. He slowly backed up and soaped up his hands. He turned her around and started with her shoulders he pulled her close she could feel the hard length of his hard length pressing up against her backside it gave her body goosebumps, shivering from its coldness. He steps back and washes her back and then her butt. While washing her butt he's groping it and smack it some making her wince. With each smack she whines a bit. He turned her to face him and then began to wash the front of her. First taking her arms and rubbing them and then moving his hands over and around her neck he goes for her breast. One in each hand he washes them squeezing and shaking them. Gripping them. Violet moans with pleasure. "You like that?" Gabriel said slickly "you like when I touch your breast and flick your nipples?" Violet moans quietly arching her back in response as he pinched her nipples. He moves from her breasts to her stomach and then below. He slides his hand between her legs and pulls her in. She gasps and holds on to him for support as he runs his fingers between her lips and clit. She's trembling from his touch. As he moves his finger around the outside of her. "Time to rinse off" he whispers to her. He uses his body to push her towards the water and he rubs her again he presses the front half of her body to his and washes the soap off her backside. She throws her head back. And begins to let out a scream, but he covers her mouth with his hands and says "shhhhh be quiet now." He spins her around so her back side is pressed against his c*ck. Feeling it's cold contact she throws her head back again gasping. Her then washes the front of her off pressing hard against her he gropes her breast squeezing them tight and pinching her nipples. She was so surprised by how good this felt. How badly she wanted him to bite her. And just as she finished that thought he stuck his hands between her legs again, and then he bit her on the opposite side of Oliver's bite. The bite burned her core undoing her as he played with her clit with his fingers and then sliding them inside her. Holding her body hostage with his fangs and fingers she completely submitted to his whims. He could have what ever he wanted in that moment and she wouldn't complain a bit. Pulling his fingers out of her and sucking her juices off them he says "You really are the best thing I've ever tasted. And now I know why my brothers are struggling not to f*ck you and are fighting over you. I don’t think we can wait until the full moon to start breaking you in." The book starts off without a lot of detail for the characters, but as the story progresses you you’ll notice each character develop and get to know them. Maybe even fall in love. Please enjoy!

The life of a small town boy takes a dramatic turn after a life-threatening car accident leads to an expiramental procedure. Soon after he discovers the surgery that saved his life left him with extraordinary abilities, he's forced to flee the only home he's ever known as a dangerous conspiracy unravels with him at the center.

An ordinary novel reader who lost his parents 2 years ago finds happiness only in novels. Out of all the novels he reads the novel ‘Vodrath Realm’ stood out the most in his perspective. He has a depressing life but he wants to live.Just like any other person,to have a normal life but the problem is he likes adventures and mysteries. So to have an adventurous life what will he have to??Of course to be transmigrated into a novel with a vision of the future and Overpowered abilities,right? He does get transmigrated into a novel but,was his wish granted….. “WHY DID I GET TRANSMIGRATED INTO THIS NOVEL, ITS STILL ONGOING WHY?WHY?WHY”—Shouted a boy called Arthur at the top of his lungs to the sky.

cradle snatcher

In a wolrd where a new, more powerful, and fantastical species invade the human lands, William is a man who only thinks about himself, yet something incites him to side with his own kind and overthrow the throne. Would His Highness be able to stand strong facing the challenges ahead?

Child of a monster grew into a victim of his own sick fantasies. This story isn’t about love, it never was. You as a reader have to know that.

What the hell? Were the only thoughts that ran through Hiroto Yamada's mind when he got stabbed. Stabbed by the same person that he used to work for along with his editor. Writing a plethora of successful novels, Hiroto was not low on money. And that was exactly what they wanted from him. 'Ah, looks like I'm cooked.' Were his final thoughts before he drifted off into darkness. But fortunately, fate gave him another chance as he was reincarnated as an Extra into one of the very novels he wrote. Yes, an Extra. A character that he had never written in the novel. One that he had no idea what would happen to and if he would even survive in this second chance at life. And yet again, only one thought ran through the newly born, now Ezra's mind. 'Yeah, I'm definitely cooked. _________________ Hey guys, It's my first novel. I hope all of you like it and support me through this journey. Thanks! Please don't hesitate to give me criticism and comments.

Dahlia gave up her life to prepare her brother for the Alpha king's succession but in return, he viewed her as a threat to his kingdom and sold her as a slave to the Zrika pack; The isolated kingdom known for their hatred toward the Kayer kingdom. Her life was in shambles as she was hated for where she came from, dubbed as a witch, and worked like a dog despite being of royal bloodline but everything did a complete turnaround when she found out her mate was none other than the ruthless Alpha king of the Zrika kingdom, King Azriel. Secrets and twists get unraveled as a toxin that was thought to be destroyed four decades ago resurfaces, taking the lives of countless wolves. A new villain is on the rise and he's out for revenge but none of them have a clue as to who this devil might be. ********* Excerpt------- >> "I'm still a slave here your Majesty, mate or not," Dahlia said as she tried calming the storm brewing within her heart. "It's the other way round," Azriel inched closer to her as he spoke, "I'm the slave here, a slave to you, Dahlia. My thoughts, dreams, and nightmares are all filled with your smile, voice, scent, and touch. Resisting you has become a burden to me and each second that passes without me claiming you, my mate, is unbearable."

Elora, a lady in her early 20s finds herself in the household of a bitter, sad and dictatorial merchant Sir Charles who happens to be a widower having a sore relationship with his eight years old daughter and only child. Her presence as the child's governess brings a change in this bringing the father and daughter closer and healing the wounds caused by the death of his wife. Elora realises she has fallen in love with her suppose boss but he isn't willing to accept the truth jeopardising her heart and emotions because of his attachment to his late wife. Charles must find a way to let go of the past and hope for a better future else he looses the one thing that brought light into his life.......His Governess.

[Mature Content] "He attended her wedding as a guest and decided he wanted to be the groom instead." As the Alpha's only daughter, Roselia Fiore was obedient and pampered. Until, a single crime on her 18th birthday cost her everything. Three years into imprisonment, she's forced to marry Bruce Kerpan, a man old enough to be her father. That is, until Alpha Cruden Tiberias laid an unexpected claim on her, a woman who didn't even know his name! Cruel and heartless, Cruden yielded to no one, except—her. The second he saw her, he wanted her. And he'd stop at nothing to have her, even if she begged, "Alpha, please be gentle." - - - - - Tropes: - Sunshine x Villain - Hates everyone, but her - He fell first and fell harder - Fake dating Artwork: Sarzain

Transported into the universe of his own novel, a young author awakens in the body of a cursed villain, with only four years before a demonic force consumes him. In a fantasy world filled with monsters and heroes, he must use his knowledge of the plot to survive and protect his newfound siblings, Noah and Emma, while keeping his distance from the main characters to avoid altering the future he wrote. Upon joining the Spectra Academy for heroes, he is forced to face dilemmas and alliances that challenge his intentions and draw him closer to an uncertain fate.

[MATURE CONTENTS, STRICTLY 18+ RATED, PREJUDICE, RACISM INJUSTICE, BL] The allure of dangerous attractions refused to be neglected, and distractions chosen to be explored can lead one into harmful patterns, entrapping him in cycles of addiction, difficult to escape. —---- In the turbulent times of the 1960s, Tommy Jones set off from his small town in Kentucky to Tennessee, instructed by his mother and the turns of life to retrieve his father's possessions, his rightful inheritance as heir to Barnaby Jones, as he was made to believe by his mother. Being denied his inheritance by his 'father's' friend, he was put to the test: "Show me you're more than just a colored kid claiming a white man's legacy. Get good grades, demonstrate your worth, and then we'll discuss your father's properties." Now, situated among all whites and being the only black student, Tommy was mocked. That's a lie! You can't be the son of a white man, talk more Sir Barnaby Jones. You're...a Negro. It's not possible! How could he get the privilege to join the great Shan'titon High School? He doesn't belong here! Just look at his skin sticking out like a sore thumb—peewww! Tommy was better off being poor yet happy with his fellow street brothers at home in Kentucky than being here among rich white kids who had nothing good to say to him. Well, except for… for one Benjamin Sherlock! Benjamin Sherlock, the devil son of a reputable man of the city, is a top senior in Shan'titon High, a gem of the school, the hottest of the school, yet the most vile! He cares less about anyone, he's known for his nasty self, wickedness, and rudeness! But does he give a damn? No! Tommy gets to know that he needs this guy to successfully get through this school, for protection and all. What's more, this guy seems to know his 'father' Barnaby Jones! He could really be of good help, but as they say, distractions and attractions can be very disadvantageous. Tommy is stuck in an entrapping master (Head Honcho) and servant (Host) relationship with Benjamin, standing as the epitome of pleasure, the giver of bittersweet addiction, and the full emblem of intimacy and lust! Tommy is caught up in this distraction in human form, and his actions stand as an attraction. Could this lead to love, or will it die as just a game? Benjamin: "Tommy Lee, the name fits you like a glove." Tommy: "How'd you figure that out, huh? That that's my whole first name, man?" Benjamin: "I know a thing or two, Kitten." Benjamin knows something Tommy should not know—about his father, about his past, his identity, and about his birth. And he is willing to hide it, or could he? Could he when his intentions are being doubted and he is being put to the test? Benjamin: "Kitty cat." Tommy: "Yeah, man?" Benjamin: "Let's say, just saying, Barnaby Jones isn't your old man. What then?" Tommy: "Lawdy, how can that be? Hahaha! If it ain't him, then who in the world would be my old man?" Benjamin: "A man with a reputation bigger than the whole dadgum state of Tennessee and Kentucky combined. Just sayin'.” (Update Time is irregular currently until further notice 2 - 5 chapters daily) A/N: Send A Message Through Reviews And Comments.

Eloise Xaquille ialah seorang lelaki tampan berkacukan perancis yang di lahirkan di Portugal,Dia seorang lelaki yang tampan dan bergaya, berbadan Maskular,Tegas dalam bekerja, tidak suka membuang masa dan tidak takut kepada apa-apa ancaman yang akan datang pada dirinya. Laleta Amara ialah seorang gadis berasal dari Malaysia,Laleta Amara seorang yang ceria,jujur orangnya dan tidak suka berbohong, seorang gadis yang straight to the point,ayu dan juga matang.Laleta amat menyukai Bunga tulip kerana baginya bunga tulip sangat cantik bila ia mekar. Maka terjadilah pertemuan yang tidak di jangka antara Eloise dan Laleta. "Sorry sir....I didn't mean it"-Laleta Amara "Eh tidak mengapa cik...manis.."-Eloise Xaquille "Eh..boleh cakap melayu?"-Laleta Amara "eh.. mestilah,Saya ada Muhammad dan bin.Muhammad Eloise Xaquille Bin Ahmad David Hamdan,Daddy saya orang Portugal kacukan Melayu, mummy saya Dahlia Hilda berkacukan Perancis dan Melayu"-Eloise Xaquille "Waw ..rumit..."-Laleta Amara "Haha,So how about you?"-Eloise Xaquille "Nurul Laleta Amara Binti Ahmad Khaliff"-Laleta Amara "Laleta means...Tulips in Bulgaria, right? Ms.Tulip?"- Eloise Xaquille "Yeah... how did you know?"-Laleta Amara "Saya study kat sana dulu"-Eloise Xaquille "ohh...tapi muka Encik tak macam asia.. but tadi Encik cakap parents Encik ada mix dari luar Malaysia..."-Laleta Amara "Eu nasci em portugal..."-Eloise Xaquille "Huh? apa portugal?"-Laleta Amara "i was born in Portugal" -Eloise Xaquille Sejak pertemuan itu, Eloise meminta number talifon Laleta untuk memudahkan dia menghubungi Laleta memandangkan Laleta ialah pekerja di Syarikat milik keluarganya. "Good morning Ms.tulip...how are you?"-Eloise Xaquille "Good morning Mr.boss...i'm good,how about you?"-Laleta Amara "A bit mess lah..i think.. i'm gonna die soon...i miss you..."-Eloise Xaquille "Huh?"-Laleta Amara "i said,i miss you..."-Eloise Xaquille "Mengada Awak ni boss"-Laleta Amara Eloise hanya tersenyum nakal sambil mengenyitkan sebelah mata kepada Laleta.

Exp exp exp exp

In this ongoing novel, the author tells a tale of a world where humans and monsters thrive in disharmony. Through a series of discoveries, citizens and governments alike come to realize that there is hope in destroying such abominations and achieving a peaceful society when the existence of an unknown force that initiates people into a dark inner magic circle is discovered. Instagram; grant_az

Karina, a kind-hearted young woman, finds herself trapped inside the pages of a novel and discovers an opportunity to alter the tragic fate of the novel's protagonists, Roland Bleuet and his sister, Melisa. Determined to protect them from the hardships they will face, Karina diligently saves her money to escape with the children. However, upon reaching Torres, their intended destination, Karina realizes that their savings fall short of the required amount to reach the capital. Undeterred, she decides to find refuge in Torres while attempting to shield Roland and Melisa from any harm that might befall them. It is in Torres where Karina unexpectedly crosses paths with Duke Claude Torres, a man who possesses a peculiar infatuation with gathering talented individuals. Recognizing the potential that lies within Roland, Duke Claude becomes a looming antagonist, threatening to negatively impact the siblings' lives in the future. Determined to shield her adoptive children from Duke Claude's clutches and the dangers that lie ahead, Karina must summon all her strength, wit, and resourcefulness. Along their journey, they encounter friends, enemies, and unexpected allies who aid them in their quest for a brighter future. As the trio navigates through societal pressures, political intrigue, and the unpredictable dynamics of the realm, Karina faces numerous challenges and learns that changing destiny is never easy. She must draw upon her compassion, resilience, and unwavering determination to protect the ones she loves and give Roland and Melisa the chance at a better life. Told through the lens of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery, "Guardian of Destiny" explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of the human spirit. Will Karina succeed in altering the course of fate and safeguarding her adoptive children, or will Duke Claude's machinations prove too formidable? Join Karina on this thrilling and heartwarming journey as she unravels the secrets of the novel's world and fights against fate itself.

fantasy romance

When Tania meets Gideon, a mesmerizing stranger on the bus, she’s convinced he’s nothing more than a fleeting dream—a figure too perfect to exist in real life. Yet, in an inexplicable twist of fate, Gideon reappears as her attending doctor after she unexpectedly falls ill. Tania’s life, once defined by her steady love for her fiancé, Anderson, starts spiraling out of control as Gideon’s overwhelming affection forces its way into her world. With his undeniable charm and unshakeable belief that they’re destined to be together, Gideon stirs desires Tania never knew she had. But is this connection real, or just the shadow of an impossible love that’s crossed the boundaries of her dreams into her reality? As Tania’s heart wavers between Anderson’s comforting familiarity and the tantalizing mystery of Gideon, she’s forced to confront her deepest fears and desires. Will she choose the stable life she’s always envisioned, or will she surrender to a love that feels like destiny, even if it might destroy her carefully planned future?

He lost his home, he lost his only friend, he was cursed to roam the lands alone, to be shunned by society, haunted by memories of what he once had. Then his eyes suddenly opened, and everything became clear, he could see all, nothing could hide from his gaze, it seemed like he had been blessed by the heavens, or could it have been a curse? Navigating a conflict-torn world, filled with deceit and lies, war and honour, he comes to discover what is hidden beneath its surface, secrets hidden under the veil, truths that were never true. As his journey unfolds, his findings reveal that his newfound eyes carry a much deeper secret, and he soon finds himself entangled in a web of ancient danger beyond his imagination. Follow the journey of the vagabond, Ivander Rostov Marquez. {A/N: This is purely a work of fiction and imagination, while there might be some familiar elements related to real life, it is not meant to offend anyone or push any negative agenda and is just meant for entertainment purposes.}

[Warning: Mature Content] "Master, are we going to keep what happened last night a secret between us?" "For how loud you moaned and cried, Qing-er, I think the whole world has already learned all about it, and your concern is irrelevant." Yun Qing-er, the only disciple of the legendary immortal swordmaster Bai Ye, has been hiding her feelings for her master for years. Unaccepted by norms and morals, it is the darkest secret that she swears to bury deep within her heart. But life has other plans. Bai Ye's desire for her burns hot beneath his solemn appearance. He will teach her not only the art of the sword, but also the pleasures of life that she never knew existed before. ---------------- Smut starts at Chapter 17, with a teaser in Chapter 11. A bit softcore at first but will get wilder quickly as the story moves on :) Note that this is NOT a typical cultivation romance. Immortals and spiritual power and whatnot are all plot devices… You'll see what I mean in just a few chapters! ---------------- [Sneak Peek] He pinned me against the poplar tree at the center of the garden. A breeze rustled past, stirring the sunlight sparkling through the autumn foliage above us, and a sprinkle of gold fell over his shoulders. "Say you want me," he whispered. "Bai Ye—" I breathed, but the rest of my words were replaced by moans the moment he traced his kisses along my neck and took my earlobe into his mouth. Familiar tingles roared through me as he nibbled and suckled gently. His hand slid up my chest, and he played with my sensations with his lips and tongue and fingers until my arms trembled around him. All other thoughts vanished from my mind. The only thing I knew was the irresistible feeling of him on me, so overwhelming that my knees started growing weak. I would've fallen if he wasn't pinning me hard against the tree. "Bai Ye …" I moaned again, clawing at his clothes. "Of course I want you … Right here, right now." He let out a soft puff of laughter, and his hand grazed down, gripping the folds of my dress. With a rip of fabric, he tore them away.

Li Haohao was the eldest young master of the Li family. He was rumored to have a ruined appearance and was crippled, confined to a wheelchair for life. Xiao Fan was the rightful young lady of the Xiao family. She was forced to marry Li Haohao instead of her stepsister due to her father's favoritism, and she was pushed into an unavoidable position! Of course, Xiao Fan was no pushover either. Taking advantage of the arranged marriage, she swindled a large sum of money from her father and then married into the Li family with a huge prenuptial fortune. Xiao Fan had prepared herself to face an ugly, twisted, and dark husband. But unexpectedly, her married life was completely different from what she had imagined! Although Li Haohao's appearance was ruined, and his body was not conducive to movement, he was gentle and polite to others, especially to Xiao Fan, his substitute wife. Sometimes, Xiao Fan couldn't help but sigh; heaven must have been so jealous of her husband that they took away his appearance and legs! But... could anyone tell her who this stunningly handsome man soaking in her bathtub was? Li Haohao: "Oh, you caught me in the act? What should we do now?" Xiao Fan: "..." Was this sinister and dangerous man really her husband? Did he transform into a completely different person?!"

The moonlight filtered through the large windows of Li Qiang's penthouse, casting a silvery glow over the room. The city lights twinkled in the distance, a stark contrast to the dark world they both inhabited. Xin Yi stood by the window, her silhouette framed by the night sky, lost in thought. Li Qiang entered the room quietly, his presence commanding yet gentle. He approached her, his footsteps barely making a sound on the plush carpet. "Xin Yi," he called softly, his voice a deep, soothing rumble. She turned to face him, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and vulnerability. "Yes, Mr. Gou?" she replied, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. He stepped closer, his gaze intense and unwavering. "You don't have to call me that when we're alone," he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Call me Li Qiang." Xin Yi's heart skipped a beat. She had seen him in his most ruthless moments, but this side of him was different—softer, almost tender. "Li Qiang," she repeated, the name feeling foreign yet familiar on her tongue. He reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from her face. His touch was surprisingly gentle, sending a shiver down her spine. "You've been through so much," he murmured, his eyes searching hers. "I see the strength in you, but I also see the pain." Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away, refusing to let them fall. "I have a mission," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't afford to be weak." Li Qiang cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears that escaped. "Strength isn't about never breaking," he said softly. "It's about finding the courage to keep going, even when you're broken." For a moment, the world outside ceased to exist. It was just the two of them, standing on the precipice of something neither could fully understand. Xin Yi felt a warmth spread through her, a feeling she hadn't allowed herself to experience in a long time. Li Qiang leaned in, his breath warm against her skin. "Let me be your strength," he whispered, his lips inches from hers. "Let me help you carry the weight." Xin Yi closed her eyes, her resolve wavering. She had come here for revenge, but in this moment, all she wanted was to lose herself in his embrace. She felt his lips brush against hers, a tentative, gentle kiss that spoke of promises and unspoken desires. She kissed him back, her hands finding their way to his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. It was a kiss filled with longing and desperation, a silent plea for solace in a world filled with chaos. When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other. "This changes nothing," Xin Yi said, her voice trembling. "I still have a mission." Li Qiang nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I know," he replied. "But maybe, just maybe, we can find a way to navigate this together." As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, the lines between love and duty blurred, leaving them both wondering what the future held. Jang Xin Yi's world shattered the night her parents were brutally murdered. Consumed by vengeance, she infiltrates a ruthless mafia organization, posing as a bodyguard. Her mission: gather evidence and dismantle the syndicate from within. But her resolve wavers when she meets Li Qiang, the enigmatic and feared underboss. As she navigates this perilous world, Xin Yi is confronted with horrors that test her every step—the nauseating stench of death, gruesome torture chambers, and the brutal reality of Li Qiang’s actions. Despite the terror, Xin Yi remains determined to see her mission through. Will her thirst for revenge triumph, or will love and danger alter her path forever? Li Qiang commands respect through sheer terror. But when he hires a fearless martial artist who speaks her mind, his curiosity is piqued. Soon, he discovers the truth—his new bodyguard is a woman in disguise.

Waking up, Kim Hajin finds himself in a familiar world but an unfamiliar body.A world he created himself and a story he wrote, yet never finished.He had become his novel’s extra, a filler character with no importance to the story.The only clue to escaping is to stay close to the main storyline.However, he soon finds out the world isn’t exactly identical to his creation

Aimi, Farah, and a group of trapped players are desperately seeking a way to escape the twisted game world that holds them captive. Their only hope lies in defeating the enigmatic Creator, the mastermind behind their imprisonment. But not all players share the same goal—an opposing faction believes that staying trapped in the game offers true freedom, and they will do anything to protect their new reality. As the battle for survival and freedom intensifies, Aimi and Farah must face powerful enemies, unravel the mysteries of the game, and decide how far they are willing to go to break free.

Accidentally provoked a big BOSS. She was just being kind, and she was investigated by Big BOSS. She never imagined that this big BOSS was still her future brother-in-law! But what should I do? Her brother-in-law doesn't seem to like her sister, but he is interested in her. Before, there was a stepmother eyeing up, and after that, there was a father's sinister means. Help! Fortunately, the big BOSS did not annihilate humanity, and always helped at critical times. Iceberg face finally has a melting trend, um ... this BOSS is unexpectedly a little warm!