forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)
Started by @LolaBug
tune

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@ElderGod-yellowqueen

(Hehehe did you suspect??)

Kaillas pulled a ring box out of his jacket pocket that he had tried so hard to conceal it during their night. And seeing as how she hadn't mentioned anything, he assumed he had succeeded. He opened the box and revealed the ring. Despite the grand gestures around them, the ring was quite simple, and dainty. It was a thing gold band with three gemstones. A small, square-cut light blue sapphire, and two complimenting diamonds.

He had been working on the design of the ring for weeks, playing around with different designs and cuts and gems. He wanted it to be perfect. He needed it to be perfect, for she deserved nothing less. The ring had been designed by a famous jeweler outside of Vaeril. It was the very maker of his mother's favorite jewelry. He knew there was no one else who could get it right.

He didn't think he was breathing. Not as he looked up at her. "I was never able to give you the proposal you deserved. I hope to fix that tonight." He cleared his throat. Was it hot? He felt hot, despite the autumn approaching and the cool night's breeze. "I have only known you for a short time but I have never been so sure of something in my life. You are amazing. You're empathy towards others. Your willingness to help and care for others. You are strong and stubborn and wonderful.

"You are the light of my life. I was lost in the dark before you lit the way and brought me back. I need you. I need you like I need air to breathe. I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Ophelia Lacerta, will you marry me?" Again.

@LolaBug

(I had an inkling with all of the talk about nerves but your last few posts solidified it. The execution is absolutely precious tho!)

Ophelia's breath catches in her throat as Kaillas unveils the ring, and her eyes fixate on the simple yet elegant band adorned with a square-cut light blue sapphire and two delicate diamonds. It's a breathtaking piece, and she's overwhelmed by the depth of thought and love he put into selecting it.

As Kaillas begins his heartfelt speech, her emotions intensify. His words, filled with admiration and warmth, touch her heart deeply. She can hardly believe that she is here, in this moment, with the man who has brought so much happiness into her life. Their relationship started off tense and rocky and yet here she is, about to sob as she listens to his sweet words. She never thought it to be possible to love someone this much.

Tears of joy begin to well in her eyes as he finishes speaking and pops the life-changing question once more. She is rendered momentarily speechless, her heart pounding loudly in her chest.

"Kaillas," she whispers, her voice quivering with emotion. "I… I don't know what to say. You've already brought so much light into my life, and I love you more than words can express." Her voice grows stronger as she continues, "Yes, a thousand times yes. I will marry you, Kaillas. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, lighting up each other's worlds."

Overwhelmed by the depth of her feelings, she extends her hand toward him, tears of happiness streaming down her cheeks. A radiant smile graces her lips, and she knows that this moment, surrounded by the beauty of the night and Kaillas's unwavering love, will forever be etched in her heart.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

(I wanted to be like, discrete and then I like, wellllllll, he's nervous. I gotta make sure he's nervous XD)

Kaillas grew nervous with the silence. He had finished his well-rehearsed speech and was gifted with silence. And even worse, there were tears in her eyes. Tear! Those were never a good sign, were they not? He shifted unsteadily in his kneeling position, his hands suddenly very slick with sweat. What did he do now? Was this a rejection? He wasn't sure how he would handle that. It would be awkward given that they were already married. They couldn't really be unmarried.

And when she opened her mouth, he felt the impending doom that was to come. The rejection, the humiliation- Wait, what? He wasn't breathing, not as she was speaking. Not as she was saying yes. Not as she was saying that she loved him too. His heart was soaring and his ears were ringing. He almost couldn't believe it. He was, well, Kaillas. And he was difficult and stubborn and stuck in his head. He was hard to work with. A pain in the ass more like. And no one had ever loved him. Not like this before. He believed himself incapable of love, of being loved.

As she extended her hand towards him, he slipped off her first marital ring. A ring that symbolized this arrangement and their forced marriages. He wanted to replace it with a symbol of their love. His lip was quivering as he slipped the new ring on her finger, a perfect fit. He placed the old ring in the box and slipped it back into his coat.

As he stood, he pulled her into his arms, crushing her to his chest and kissing her. He tasted salt on her lips, whether it was from her tears or his own, he didn't know. Because he was crying. Once the first one had escaped from his eyes, the rest had followed. There was no stopping it. Not as she wore his ring and had proclaimed her love for him.

@LolaBug

(It was so freaking sweet I was melting XD)

Ophelia's heart skips a beat as she sees the anxiety flash across Kaillas's face during the brief silence that follows her response. She can't bear the thought of him feeling rejected or humiliated after this grand gesture.

But when she sees the emotions flicker in his eyes—a mixture of surprise, joy, and relief—she realizes that she has made him happy, and that's all she ever wanted. It's incredible how they have both managed to find love and happiness in a situation that had started out as a mere political arrangement.

As Kaillas takes off the old marital ring and replaces it with the new one, her heart swells with love and gratitude. The symbolism of this exchange touches her deeply, and she knows that this new ring represents the true love they have found in each other.

When Kaillas pulls her into his arms and kisses her, she responds with all the love and passion she feels for him. Their tears mingle, and she holds him tightly, never wanting to let go. She has never been happier than in this moment, with Kaillas by her side.

Breaking the kiss, she looks into his eyes, her own glistening with tears of happiness. "I love you so much, Kaillas," she whispers, her voice filled with emotion. "I'm so grateful to have you in my life, and I can't wait to spend the rest of our lives together." She leans in and kisses him again, sealing their love and commitment under the starry night sky.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

(Me too XD Unfortunately, I'm in class so I keep looking over my shoulder wondering if anyone is watching me XD)

Kaillas placed one hand on the back of her head, his hand tangling in her hair. He didn't particularly care if he ruined it. It would get ruined shortly when he took her to bed. It didn't really matter to him if he did it now or later. He didn't plan on running into anyone from here to their bedroom. And if there was anyone in the halls, he doubted they would be their main concern.

He looked down at her, his crying intensifying as she spoke once more. He didn't know what he had done for this perfect woman to fall right into his lap. But he knew one thing for sure, he was never fucking this up. She was his now, for the rest of their days. And even in death, she couldn't be rid of him. He was never letting her go.

"I love you," he murmured against her lips. "From this day until my last, you are mine." He tilted her head back as they kissed once more. If her gown would allow him, he would have pulled her closer. Unfortunately, there was only so close he could get due to the tangle of layers. It would come off soon enough, he was in no hurry.

He had told her of his love. Now he planned to show her his love. But for now, he wanted to kiss her under the glistening moon as she shined just like one of the stars that belonged alongside it. His beautiful wife.

The content of their second wedding would be wholly up to her. Neither of them had much choice in their first. This second one would be up to her. When and where and who attended. Anything she wanted was hers, nothing was too expensive. But knowing his wife, it would likely be a small affair and he was perfectly happy with that.

@LolaBug

(Thankfully I just got home from work so I don't have to be paranoid anymore XD)

Ophelia feels a shiver of emotion surge through her as Kaillas' hand finds its place in her hair, his fingers entangled in the strands. Good lord, even in the most tender of moments this man finds a way to drive her wild, something she greatly enjoys. She can't help but smile through her tears, her heart pounding in her chest as she gazes up at the man who has captured her heart so completely. She never imagined she could find someone who would make her feel this cherished, this adored.

As Kaillas speaks, his voice quivering with emotion, her heart melts even further. She can hardly believe the depth of his love for her, the intensity of the connection they share. It's a love she's dreamed of but never truly believed could be hers. Her own tears mingle with his as they kiss, and she holds onto him as tightly as her gown allows, longing to be as close to him as humanly possible.

The moonlight bathes them in its gentle glow, casting a romantic aura over the moment. She can't help but feel like the luckiest woman in the world, and she's overwhelmed with gratitude for this second chance at happiness. She knows that whatever the future holds, as long as she has Kaillas by her side, she has everything she needs.

At the thought of second wedding, Ophelia's heart flutters with excitement. She never thought she'd have the opportunity to plan her own wedding, and the fact that Kaillas is willing to give her complete control warms her heart even more. She knows it won't be a grand affair, but it will be perfect in its simplicity, a celebration of their love and commitment to each other.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

Kaillas finally parted from their kiss, placing his hands on her cheeks and gently wiping away the tears. He swiped his thumbs under eyes, clearing them way before they had a chance to fall. He leaned forward and kissed her forehead before leaning back. "Look at you, my radiant star. I am unworthy to be in your presence and yet you have chosen me. I will spend the rest of my life trying to be worthy of this gift."

Because that was what she was, a gift. Her family had never seen exactly how special she was, but he did. He saw what an amazing woman she was. Her care for those less fortunate than her was but one example. He had seen many "care" for the less fortunate, but it was all a game to gain popularity over the people. Ophelia didn't care if anyone was watching her while she cared for others.

He took a step back and bowed at the waist, extending a hand towards her. "My love, will you have this last dance with me?" There was no music but he needed none. Not when he had nothing but the stars as witnessed. He wanted to dance her one last time before the night came to an end and they retired to their room. One last dance where they danced among the stars.

@LolaBug

Ophelia's heart swells with emotion as Kaillas tenderly wipes away her tears and kisses her forehead. His words make her feel like the most cherished and adored person in the world, and she can't help but smile through her lingering tears. She places her hand on his cheek, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her touch, and says softly, "You are more than worthy, Kaillas. You are my heart's desire, and I choose you every day."

When he takes a step back and extends his hand, asking for one last dance, her heart flutters with delight. The absence of music doesn't matter; they have the celestial symphony of the stars above. She takes his hand gracefully and steps closer to him, resting her other hand on his shoulder as they begin to sway together under the night sky.

With a loving smile, she gazes into his eyes and says, "Of course, darling. I would dance with you for all eternity if I could. Tonight, let's dance among the stars, and let their light be our music." As they move together in a slow and intimate dance, she knows that she is luckiest woman in the world, knowing that she has found a love that is as boundless as the universe itself.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

(Just got home from school. Also got a little rear-ended at a railroad crossing. No damage but it did freak me out.)

Kaillas certainly didn't feel worthy of her. He likely never would. There was too much blood stained on his hands. Too many ghosts he was fighting. He would never be worthy of her but damned if he wouldn't try. He would spend the rest of his days repenting his sins if it meant he might truly be worthy of her. He leaned into the hand she had placed on his cheek, his eyes closing as soaked in the moment.

As she took his hand, he pulled her close into his embrace. He placed one hand around her waist, his fingers clutching her tight. His lips brushed against the top of her head as he led her into a soft slow dance. They were swaying to the sound of the stars, moving in a slow circle. Their dance rarely had movement at all, and that was alright. He just wanted to be with her, to feel her.

He placed his cheek on the top of her head, eyes closing. He wanted to feel, rather than see. He wanted his senses to focus on the feel of her, the scent of her. He wanted his breaths to be only her. He wanted his touch to be nothing but where their skin met. He wanted to burn this moment into his memory so he never forgot. He wanted to be able to pluck this memory from his head and tell it to their children, daughters and sons, that this was how the love of their lives should be treated.

@LolaBug

(Oh shit that’s scary!! I’m glad you’re okay!)

Ophelia revels in the warmth of Kaillas' embrace, her heart dancing to the rhythm of their slow, intimate connection. She rests her head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart, a reassuring reminder that they're alive and together. She gazes up at the night sky, its vastness mirrored in the depth of her feelings for him. In this moment, it's as if the universe itself conspired to bring them here.

As they sway in their tender dance, she fingers trace delicate patterns on Kaillas' back, a silent promise of unwavering support. She knows that love isn't about perfection; it's about acceptance and growth. She believes in his capacity for change and redemption, just as she believes in the love they share.

Their connection transcends words, existing in the realm of shared breaths and the electricity of their touch. Her senses are overwhelmed by him—the softness of his hair under her fingertips, the scent of the forest that clings to his skin, and the way his breaths synchronize with hers. In this embrace, there's a timeless quality, as if the world has ceased to turn, and it's just the two of them.

As the night unfolds around them, she can't help but imagine a future with Kaillas, one where their love is a guiding light for their children. She cherishes this moment, hoping that it's the first of many chapters in their enduring love story. In the quiet of the night, she whispers words of love and encouragement to him, knowing that together, they can conquer any ghosts and find redemption in each other's arms.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

(Yeah I'm good. Just a little freaked out XD)

Kaillas released a quiet breath, all his worries and tension leaving with it. There was nothing else here but them. There was no one to witness this union other than the stars themselves, and it seemed even they paused to watch. If only he could freeze time to stay right in this moment. He never wanted to leave it. His beautiful wife in his arms, dancing under the moon and stars, what more could he want in life? He had it all. And he would do everything in his power to keep her.

Her soothing touch calmed his soul. His skin tingled across his back where her fingers touched through the layers of clothing. He wished she were touching her bare skin but knew otherwise. At least not until they reached the comfort of their room.

Time was but an illusion as the night went on. If not for the moon, he would have thought they had been out there for hours. Perhaps he almost wished they had been. But the night would have to come to an end sooner or later. But not just yet. He wasn't finished with this dance. They still had the grand finale left.

Taking her hand, he spun and spun and spun her until she became one with the stars, only to bring her back down to earth and back down to her. Dipping her, he kissed her once more. A proclamation of his love to her. And as they uprighted themselves, he said,"Are you ready for bed, love?" And his words suggested they would be doing anything but.

@LolaBug

(Yeah, I bet! That’s some Final Destination crap right there XD)

Ophelia's heart sings as Kaillas releases his worries into the night air. Their world narrows down to this sacred space, where only their love and the celestial heavens bear witness. The stars seem to twinkle in approval, a cosmic audience to their love story. Time feels like an afterthought; in this moment, it's as if it stretches on forever, and she wishes for nothing more than to be ensnared by it.

His touch, even through layers of fabric, ignites a gentle fire within her. She longs for the warmth of their private sanctuary, where they can shed the trappings of the world and be truly vulnerable with each other. But for now, this stolen moment under the moon's tender gaze is perfection itself.

As they continue to dance, the night enfolds them in its embrace. Every step, every twirl, is a testament to their shared connection, a dance of souls bound by an unbreakable bond. When Kaillas spins her into the starry abyss and then draws her close, she feels like she's floating in a dreamscape, her heart echoing his proclamation of love.

Her heart races with exhilaration as Kaillas twirls her among the stars. In that dizzying moment, she feels weightless, as if she truly has become one with the celestial bodies above. When he brings her back down to earth and seals it with a kiss, her heart flutters with love and desire.

“Very much so,” She murmurs in agreement, her thumb gently stroking his cheek.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

Kaillas gazed upon Ophelia with a lover's gaze. He captured the hand that touched his cheek, nibbling on the pad of her thumb before pressing a soft kiss to it. Just a taste of the night that was to come. His gaze of love turned to one of passion and heat.

They had the whole night ahead of them. With the court likely hungover the next morning, there was of little consequence should they sleep in and spend the day to themselves. Besides, she had a mountain of gifts to go through, and his own to share with her. Something that wasn't quite as easy to package up and place on a table. He did hope she liked it, but if she was overjoyed with this, he had nothing to fear.

"Then come, my love, let us retire for the night." He took her hand in his, her left hand, and led her back into the palace. His thumb grazed across the ring he had bestowed on her finger, as if trying to remind himself that this was real. The ring was real. She was real. She loved him. He didn't think he would ever get used to that. Her love. He didn't want to get used to it. He wanted to feel this way every time he was reminded she loved him.

Through the halls and up the stairs, they finally made it to their rooms. They passed a few in the halls. A few maids scuttled about, preparing for their work the next day. And a few courtiers who had the same mind as Kaillas, only they hadn't quite made it to a bedroom yet. None he recognized nor cared too. He had one thing on his mind and he wouldn't stop until they were behind shut doors.

Kaillas gently shut the door behind them, locking them in their room. The only light provided was the beams from the moon that slipped through the curtains. It was all he needed. He didn't need candlelight or torches. The moon was enough. It granted him vision without lighting the whole room.

@LolaBug

Ophelia's breath catches as Kaillas captures her hand and indulges in a playful nibble, igniting a fiery anticipation within her. The taste of what's to come leaves her yearning for more, her heart racing in sync with his newfound passion. One would think that they would be satisfied after their romp in the closet earlier but she simply can’t get enough of her husband.

Luckily, the majority of the court will be terribly hungover tomorrow which means they get the morning to themselves. Granted, some of that time will be spent with her opening the unnecessarily large mountain of gifts that have been given to her. The rest of the time….she gets Kaillas all to herself.

As they make their way back into the palace, she walks alongside him, their fingers interlocked. The ring on her finger, a symbol of their love and commitment, reminds her that this love is indeed real. Her gaze often shifts from the ring to Kaillas, a silent affirmation of the depth of her affection for him. This all feels so surreal. The proposal was so sweet and special. She’ll remember that moment for the rest of her life.

Passing by the busy maids and courtiers, she bites back a laugh. It seems as though several others have the same idea as them, though they appear to be the only ones not stumbling around drunk in their haste. Kaillas's determination to reach their room is exciting. She loves it when he gets impatient like this.

Once safely behind the door, the moonlight casts a soft, ethereal glow, revealing the contours of their bedroom. She turns to look at him when she hears the lock clicking into place.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

Kaillas didn't think he had ever slept so soundly. He had fallen asleep with his wife after a night of passion and an admittance of their love. Not only had his night been free of nightmares, he had had wonderful dreams. Which, of course, left his the moment his eyes fluttered open but the warm feeling remained. He just knew it had been a good dream. And highly likely about the woman he was currently holding in his arms.

He had woken up before her as he naturally did. The rays peaking through the curtains were a dead give away that he had slept in. To his standards at least. He was usually up before the morning sun peaked beyond the horizon. It looked to be just about eight in morning based kn the sun, and a quick glance at the clock on the wall told him he was close enough to being right. 7:37. It felt strange to stay in bed instead to dress and go to the training yard. And delectable as his wife was, even she couldn't make him stay in bed. He was too restless.

But this morning was different. He wanted nothing more than to stay right for hours if he could. Unfortunately, they had to get up to send her parents away. Fortunately, her parents were leaving. Any longer and he might have resorted to alcoholism or violence. Or both. He hadn't quite decided yet.

Kaillas curled further around Oohelia, her back to his front. His eyes closed as he took a deep breath her hair. It smelled like her. It made his heart warm inside and a flutter in his stomach. The once feared and terrifying King now reduced to this. And he wasn't even upset about it. Love did strange things to people.

@LolaBug

Ophelia stirs gently in her husband's embrace as the warmth of morning sunlight filters through the curtains. Her sleep was peaceful, the kind of serenity she hadn't experienced in years, and it was all thanks to the night they had shared. She nestles closer to Kaillas, reveling in the feeling of his strong arms around her. It's a sensation she never wants to end.

With half-closed eyes, she listens to his steady breathing, the rise and fall of his chest matching the rhythm of his heart. A contented smile graces her lips as she recalls the passion they had shared last night and the whispered words of love they had exchanged. For the first time in a long while, she feels truly cherished, safe in his embrace.

Though Ophelia is usually the early riser, she finds herself wanting to linger in this moment, basking in the love that surrounds them. The clock on the wall serves as a reminder of the world beyond their bedroom, but today, she's in no hurry to face it. Instead, she entwines her fingers with Kaillas', silently reveling in the simplicity of their togetherness.

The thought of her parents' impending departure nudges at the edges of her consciousness. As much as she cherishes this moment with her husband, she knows they must eventually rise to see her parents off. The prospect is exciting. She looks forward to being free of them once again.

Ophelia shifts slightly to face Kaillas, her gaze meeting his with a mixture of love and gratitude. His transformation from a feared and powerful King to the man holding her in his arms speaks volumes about the power of love. It warms her heart to know that he is no longer burdened by the weight of his past, and they can face the future together, a couple bound not just by duty but by a deep and enduring love. With a soft sigh of contentment, she leans in to capture his lips in a tender morning kiss, silently promising that no matter what challenges lie ahead, they will face them together.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

As Kaillas felt her awaken, he tightened his grip around her, smiling as he nuzzled his face in her hair. He placed a gentle kiss to her ear before settled back against her. His usual restless self was gone and all he wanted to do was laze away in bed and make love to his wife. Unfortunately, they did have to get up soon. But he would enjoy every minute in bed with her that he could.

He would run a bath for them soon. He liked to wash her, when she allowed him of course. He felt like he was doing something for her, taking care of her. And that was important, especially after their night. He wanted to make sure she was clean and gently care for her. He wanted to wash and brush her hair. And he wanted to check in and make sure she was still feeling alright, physically and mentally. Even though last night hadn't been a rough night, he still wanted to make sure.

He moved his head back as he felt Ophelia shifting in his arms. He smiled down at her and happily accepted her morning kiss. This was how he wanted to be woken up every morning. With a kiss from her. He placed his lips on her forehead next. "Good morning, my love," he murmured, his voice heavy with sleep. "Did you sleep well?"

He rolled them over so that he was laying on his back and she on his chest. He gazed up at her, his expression soft and full of love. His hand slipped up the shirt she was wearing and caressed her back, his fingertips stroking up and down the smooth skin. Her hair was everywhere, the shirt crinkled from sleep. And yet she had never looked more beautiful in his eyes. The only thing that could have made it better were if she was wearing his marks. Unfortunately, it just couldn't be this time.

@LolaBug

Ophelia awakens slowly, her senses gradually coming to life as she feels Kaillas's warm embrace around her. The kiss to her ear sends a shiver of pleasure down her spine, and she can't help but smile in response. His presence always brings her comfort and warmth. She nuzzles her face into the crook of his neck, breathing in his familiar scent as she relishes the intimacy of the moment.

At the thought of their impending morning routine, she can't help but sigh While she’s greatly looking forward to being rid of her parents, the actual process won’t be fun. She appreciates his care and attention, especially after the night they shared. The way he wants to take care of her, both physically and emotionally, touches her deeply. It's one of the many reasons she loves him so profoundly.

Ophelia meets his morning kiss with equal affection, her lips soft and lingering against his. "Good morning, darling,” she replies, her voice soft and filled with love. "I slept wonderfully, thanks to you." She gazes into his eyes, feeling a rush of gratitude for the man who's been by her side through thick and thin.

As he rolls them over and she rests her head on his chest, she enjoys the soothing sensation of his hand caressing her back. His touch, gentle and loving, never ceases to make her heart flutter. "You always make waking up a pleasure," she murmurs, her fingers tracing light patterns on his chest.

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

Kaillas smiled. "Good, I'm glad." He nudged his nose against hers. He didn't know what he would do without her. He didn't know how he had lived before she had come into his life. She was the light of his life. She made everything better. She brightened every room she walked into. Just her smile could lighten anyone's mood.

He wanted every morning to be like this for the rest of their life. He wanted to wake up with soft caresses and sweet words with her. He wanted gentle kisses as they woke up together. And then they would go about their day only to come to bed together each night. He would never tire of this feeling. He would never tire of her. In fact, it was quite the opposite. he would never get enough of her.

He brushed her hair back as she laid her head on his chest. He was careful not to snag any of the tangles in her hair. He would brush it out gently in their bath. He smiled at her words and kissed the top of her head. He gave her a gentle squeeze, communicating just how much he cared for her.

"We need to get out of bed soon. And bathe. We both smell of sex. And as much as I would love to see your parent's horrified faces, I don't think you want them or anyone at court to smell that." His lip was upturned in a smirk, but only because she wasn't looking at him. He was imagining that very image. Her parent's faces, horrified. How entertaining.

@LolaBug

Ophelia's heart swells with love as Kaillas's words and affectionate gestures wash over her. The way he expresses his happiness at her restful night's sleep warms her to the core. She gazes into his eyes, losing herself in their depths for a moment. She knows that she has to soak up every moment with him before he returns to the battlefield.

She cant agree more with Kaillas's sentiment about wanting every morning to be like this. There's a sense of completeness in their connection, an unspoken understanding that transcends words. They share a deep bond that goes beyond the physical, and it's moments like these that reinforce that connection.

As Kaillas brushes her hair back, she sighs contentedly, her eyes closing briefly to savor the sensation. His gentle touch is like a soothing balm to her soul, and she revels in his care. When he squeezes her, she nestles even closer to him, feeling cherished and secure in his arms.

His mention of the need for a bath breaks the spell of their cozy moment, and she chuckles softly, her eyes meeting his with a playful glint. "You're right," she concedes, her lips curving into a mischievous smile. "As tempting as it is to scandalize the court, I suppose we should save our reputation today.”

@ElderGod-yellowqueen

Kaillas grinned in response to her little chuckle. "But only for today, that is. There's still tomorrow. And the day after. And every day for the rest of our lives." He peppered kisses across her cheeks and nose and forehead. Then with a swift movement, he he swung his legs over the bed and got out of bed, cradling Ophelia to his chest.

He strode across the room over to the bathroom. He placed her on the closed toilet lid while he started the bath, adding some salts and bubbles to it once it had reached an acceptable temperature. He had noticed that Ophelia preferred a hotter temperature than he did. So he compromised by turning the bath water to her preferred temperature. He had slowly adjusted to it. And he'd rather be too hot then her too cold.

He stripped himself of his shorts before helping her take off her shirt. He picked her up before stepping into the tub, lowering then both into the water as it continued to fill. He settled her in his lap, her back agaisnt his chest. He wrapped his arms around her as he leaned back against the back of the tub. His hands absent-mindedly stroked her stomach. He placed his chin on the top of her head. They still had some tome before they needed to get ready. They could have a relaxing bath together.