5 Minutes of Compliance.

Caedes watched Mariah as she lay beside him, her chest rising and falling with exertion. The sight of her, bathed in the warm glow of the fire, left a sense of profound satisfaction within him. As she shifted and turned to face him, he met her gaze, losing himself in the depths of her haunting silver eyes. Her touch was gentle, a soft caress that traced the scar on his cheek. Caedes felt a surge of emotion, a hungry yearning for connection that only she could draw out of him. Her fingers on his skin sent shivers down his spine, and he allowed himself to revel in the moment, savoring the peace and contentment that wrapped around them like a warm blanket.

When Mariah rose and returned with the trinkets, Caedes watched her with curiosity. The glossy red metal and black studs caught the firelight, casting a glow as he took in their details. As she settled back beside him, her words a soft whisper, he felt a swell of gratitude at her gesture. The significance of the trinkets… touched him deeply. He took the pieces from her, feeling their weight and the warmth of her intention. “Mariah, this is...” He murmured, his voice low and filled with reverence. He turned the trinkets over in his hands, feeling the smoothness of the metal and the promise they held with methodical care.

Then he leaned in, pressing a fleeting kiss to her forehead, his lips pulling back to speak as he locked their gazes. His deep emeralds fixed to her face with intense devotion. “I will find a proud use for them. Thank you.” He whispered, his breath warm against her skin. He would seek to capture her lips with his own, as though he were trying to consume her whole.

As they lay back down, Caedes held her close, feeling the steady rhythm of her heart against his chest. Though he had to wonder, just how long the peace could last. That dark thought lingered in his mind, but with a quick bury of his nose into the crook of her neck; he allowed himself to simply be with her. This woman he loved, who had stolen his mind and soul from the path that had been set before him.

[end thread]