we swam the evening away

His apology trailed off into the darkness and then there were no more words. He could feel the tension in Duch’s form but she pressed her features into his mane and eventually relaxed into sleep. He held her for a long time, taking a while to get to sleep himself. Left alone with his thoughts as he stared up at the sky uncertain about everything again. What was he doing to Duchess. He cared about her, but it felt like he was tearing her apart. He found the mask and put it on because he had to, he couldn’t be alone, he had to feel loved, but it was selfish because of what was happening to Duchess. She held onto him tightly, and he wouldn’t let her go as long as she held onto him. Maybe that would be enough.

Eventually he had fallen asleep, but didn’t stir as Duch woke up and silently took in the night around them. As she shifted in his arms he blinked open his eyes, able to see her bright eyes lit up by starlight. Her expression was taught, but she didn’t linger on his features for long. Duchess leaned forward to nibble along his jawline as she molded her body to his. He rumbled softly, his thoughts before he fell asleep long gone as her silent suggestion captured his attention.

One dark paw trailed up and down her spine as she pressed close. Sleep still wrapped his head but desire took the lead. A low needy growl settled through his chest. He shifted his muzzle so he could return her affection, easily getting lost in the wrong choices. Duchess wanted him, and he was weak to do anything but take her advances. Their relationship was full of holes, but how could they be sinking when being together felt this good. Sharp claws parted her fur as he pressed them against her skin, the desire she summoned deep and dark especially as he realized what he was doing was wrong, and pressed forward anyway.