Chapter 38: Soulmate
The hall was silent, lit only by the runes on the altar. The princess’s breath hitched; her hands lifted, as if to push him away... but stopped halfway, closing instead behind his back in an embrace.
She wanted to resist. She couldn’t.
Ethan deepened the kiss, tasting her soft lips, claiming the space she’d never thought to yield to anyone. Every attempt she made to catch her breath died against him, replaced by quiet, broken moans.
When he finally pulled his lips away, it was only enough to whisper in her ear: "Turn around."
The order, spoken in a husky voice, made the princess blush. For a moment, she hesitated and Ethan saw the spark of defiance in her eyes. But it was faint, barely there. She obeyed, placing her trembling hands on the altar.
Ethan smiled, satisfied. His hands traced the delicate line of her back, sliding down to the clasp of her dress. Slowly, he undid it, feeling the soft skin shiver under his touch. The fabric slipped from her shoulders, revealing pale, delicate curves.
The princess bit her lip, face flushed, trying to hide her embarrassment. "Ethan..." she began, her voice unsteady.
He didn’t answer. His fingers trailed down her shoulders, lower, until they reached her waist. He squeezed lightly, feeling her body tremble under his hands.
She still wanted to seem in control. But the heat rising in her body was undeniable.
Ethan leaned in, brushing his lips against the nape of her neck.
"Look at me," he ordered softly, gently moving her hair aside.