Chapter Text
A dull ache coiled through Vae's body as she stirred awake, her limbs stiff from yesterday's battle. She inhaled sharply, blinking against the shimmering amber light that filtered through the curtains. The warmth beside her shifted as she did, and before she could school her expression, a silken voice murmured, "You're hurting."
Vae barely had time to glance at Emmrich before his fingers ghosted over her bare shoulder, her gown hanging lower than she usually allowed. She tried to wave her hand, feigning indifference.
"I'm fine," she lied, rolling towards the edge of the bed. But the moment she pushed herself upright, a piercing twinge shot through her back. She hissed, her muscles protesting the movement.
Emmrich was on her in an instant.
Large hands settled on her shoulders, warm and firm, kneading gently. The initial pressure sent a shiver down her spine, earning a breathy chuckle.
"Emmrich, really, it's nothing—"
"Shhh," he hushed her, pressing his thumbs into a tight knot near her shoulder blade.
Vae bit her lip, unable to suppress the low moan that escaped her throat. His touch was precise, reverent, as if he were committing every joint, every curve of her body to memory. His thumbs worked slow circles, his palms gliding down her arms; squeezing, stroking.
"You push yourself too hard," he whispered, his voice like velvet, lips brushing the shell of her ear.
Her breath hitched, heat surging in her belly as his fingers traced the delicate ridges of her spine, smoothing away the tension. Then his lips replaced his hands, pressing a lingering kiss at the base of her neck. Vae melted, tilting her head to grant him better access.
Insatiable, the older man took full advantage.
His kisses grew more insistent, more passionate, trailing inwards and nipping lightly before soothing a particularly sensitive spot with his tongue.
"Exquisite," he whirred, basking in the taste of her natural essence and leftover hints of perfume. "Divine."
Vae's head lolled back, her pulse quickening as his mouth worshipped every inch of exposed skin.
"Emmrich..." she breathed, a soft gasp echoing through the room when he sucked at the tender junction of her neck.
"Darling," he purred in response.
Suddenly, his body pressed flush against her back, solid and yearning, his heat sinking into her. One arm wrapped around her waist, fingers splayed possessively over her stomach.
"Let me take care of you," he rasped, his voice thick with intent.
Vae's fingers curled into the sheets, her body thrumming with anticipation. She arched back, craving more, her heart pounding as his kisses pressed deeper, wetter—his hand slipped between her thighs.
Knock, knock, knock!
They both froze.
With a growl of frustration, Emmrich's forehead dropped against her shoulder, and Vae groaned, choking back a curse.
"Are you two coming?" Taash yelled, the sound muffled by the door.
Vae forced a calming breath, ignoring the rousing sensation pooling in her core. "We'll be there soon," she called, keeping her voice genial despite her irritation.
It wasn't Taash's fault. It wasn't anyone's fault.
Duty called.
There was a pause. Then Taash, oblivious as ever, said, "Hurry up. We're waiting for you downstairs, and Manfred's getting antsy without you around. I'm not a damn babysitter."
Footsteps retreated. The moment they were gone, Emmrich's lips found Vae's neck again. He kissed the spot he had just abandoned, slowly, sensually, almost teasing.
"Tonight," he muttered against her skin, "I'll work out all the kinks."
Vae shivered.
Emmrich smirked.
And with great reluctance, they finally got out of bed.
