It was tender, nothing but a brush of our lips; hers trembling and soft pressed to my
humble, unworthy mouth.
I kissed her with the gentleness I should have always used when speaking to her.
I moved, tucking her back to my chest.
"Sleep, sweetheart. You're safe. Nothing will hurt you, I promise."
"I've never slept with someone like this, Ethan."
I dropped another kiss to her neck, wanting her to understand, to know something about me that made me worthy of her faith.
"Neither have I, Rubliana. You are the first woman I've ever had in this bed."
"Oh, ah . . ."
I smiled into her skin. "I've never let anyone stay here. This is my safe place. Only mine." I tightened my embrace.
"Now, let it be yours. Sleep. I've got you."
Closing my eyes, I relaxed into her warmth.
Our bodies melded from chest to hips, our flesh seeking and finding something from the other.
Comfort.
——————
I could hear whispers as I woke, drowsy and warm—almost too warm.
