Chapter 60: Deliberate intent
Eren’s breath brushed against Maria’s collarbone as he rose, his body still pressed flush to hers. The ritual had left a glow in his eyes, soft now—yet far from dim. His hands roamed again, slower this time, reverent. As if learning her anew.
She watched him, chest rising and falling, body trembling faintly beneath the aftershocks of awakened magic. Her voice was hushed. "You’re still holding back."
Eren didn’t answer. He simply moved.
One arm hooked beneath her thighs, the other behind her back. With unhurried grace, he lifted her—his strength effortless. Maria gasped softly, arms slipping around his neck, as he carried her across the chamber.
He stopped at the edge of the stone table.
It had once held sacred offerings. Now it would hold something far more precious.
He set her down carefully, her back against the cool slab. She shivered as her skin met stone, but Eren’s hands were already there, chasing away the chill. He leaned over her, pressing kisses down her belly, each one slow and hot as brand-iron.
"I want to feel every part of you," he murmured, voice husky with restraint. "Not just with touch. With intent."
His fingers slid between her thighs again, parting them. Maria opened to him willingly, breath catching as he sank to his knees at the edge of the table.
His mouth found her once more—unhurried, patient.
He licked in slow strokes, tongue dipping, curling, teasing. His hands gripped her thighs firmly, holding her open as he tasted her like nectar, as though each motion were a vow.