He was smiling at her as that length of hair looped in soft coils around his throat, and he gave her cheek another soft caress with the pad of his thumb. She was so beautiful, and she was his. It still felt unreal, even after months of being together again, being engaged. There were still moments where it crept upon him, startling him, but of course, it was always a delight to be reminded.

"I can't wait to see you in your dress." Not a request for a preemptive peek, just honesty. She was going to be a vision in black, and no one, not even him, would be able to hold a candle to her beauty. He gave a little chuckle at her joke. It was corny, but adorable, and she always lit up for him when he laughed for her. It was worth it.

Oh, but then she was murmuring one of his favorite words, and a shiver slid down the boil's spine as he leaned in hungrily to catch her lips. No longer sweet, but demanding. He taught her that, through repetition and reward. Pleading and permission.

eight