Page 49 of Silent Dust
Stephan sensed her response, and a confident warmth radiated from him. He was focused, guiding their movements with gentle intent. “You’re everything to me,” he murmured, subtly tilting her chin upwards, holding her gaze with his.
As their lips met, it unfolded like a dance—slow and tender, heightening the connection between them. “I love how you feel,” he whispered between kisses, his hands exploring her curves, each caress igniting sparks of desire.
“The way you look at me…” she replied breathlessly, mirroring his movements, eager to respond to his lead. “It makes me feel alive.”
The rhythm of their bodies began to align, his movements deliberate and sensual, attuned to her every reaction. With each kiss and touch, he encouraged her to relax, creating an unspoken dialogue of trust and longing. As he cradled her in his arms, their breaths intertwined; she mirrored his movements, responding eagerly to his lead.
“Just like that,” he rumbled, voice low. “Let go.”
Outside, the world faded. Here, there was only them—lovers, soulmates, partners on a journey they were still writing.
Stephan pulled Flora close, wrapping her in warmth as they sank into the afterglow, the quiet enveloping them like a soft blanket. He brushed a strand of hair from her face, his fingers lightly tracing her cheek, savoring the intimacy of the moment. The gentle touch sent a ripple of comfort through her, and she smiled up at him, her eyes sparkling with affection.
Their lips met softly, each kiss a reminder of the love that flowed between them, sweet and tender, like the first rays of sunlight breaking through after a long night.
But then her expression shifted slightly, a hint of vulnerability creeping in. “I’m sorry for how I pushed you away the last couple of months,” Flora whispered, her voice barely above a murmur.
Stephan felt a pang in his heart at her admission. He hugged her tightly, wrapping his arms around her as if he could shield her from any lingering doubts. “I’m sorry I didn’t pull you back,” he said, his voice filled with sincerity. “I should have fought harder.”
Flora nestled closer, her head resting against his chest, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat calming her racing thoughts. “Let’s close this chapter and move forward,” he continued, his words a promise, a commitment. “We’re stronger together, and I want to focus on the good, on us.”
She looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, but this time they were tears of relief and hope. “You’re right. I don’t want to dwell on the past anymore. I want to continue building something beautiful with you.”
“Then let’s do it,” he replied, his voice firm yet gentle, filled with determination. “One day at a time.”
He leaned in for another kiss, but just then, the soft sounds of their children stirring outside the bedroom pulled him back to reality. The blissful bubble of their intimacy threatened by the inevitable return of family life.
A playful smile tugged at his lips as he pulled away slightly, meeting Flora’s eyes with a mix of mischief and affection.Not quite as much time as I’d hoped,he thought, but the warmth between them lingered.
“Looks like our time’s almost up,” he chuckled softly.
Flora pouted, a mock sigh escaping her lips. “And today’s going to be busy and chaotic—with the crowd coming over for the BBQ in, what, about five hours?” She rolled her eyes dramatically, though the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her excitement.
“Five hours?” Bear raised an eyebrow. “That’s practically an eternity in kid time. We might squeeze in a few more minutes before the chaos hits.”
He leaned in again, brushing his lips against hers, savoring the taste of their shared warmth.
“True,” she whispered conspiratorially. “But once they’re up, we’ll be lucky to find a moment to ourselves until bedtime.”
Bear chuckled, the sound rich and full.No rest for the weary,he thought, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. The heat between them was a small refuge against the busy day ahead.
“I’ll take charge of the grilling and set everything up. You just focus on resting and taking it easy.”
Her expression softened, gratitude shining in her eyes. “Are you sure? I don’t want you doing everything.”
“I’ve got this,” he assured her, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead. “You’ve been through a lot. I want you to enjoy today without worrying. Besides, Hawk and Lindsey are bringing sides, the team’s got drinks, ice, and snacks. We always end up with more food than even this army can eat.”
“Okay, okay,” she relented, a smile tugging at her lips. “But you have to promise to keep the kids busy. They’ll want to help, and I don’t want them underfoot while you’re grilling.”
“I’ll make sure they’re occupied,” he said, his heart swelling with love for her and their family. “They can handle small tasks—setting the table, bringing out the drinks. I’ll keep them entertained while I work my magic on the grill.”
“Just remember, no charred burgers this time!” she teased, her laughter bubbling up as she nudged him playfully.
“Hey, I’ll have you know that my grilling skills have improved tremendously!” he replied, feigning offense. “Besides, I’ve got my secret marinade to ensure everything turns out perfectly.”
“Secret marinade, huh? Now I’m intrigued,” she said, her smile brightening.
“Don’t worry, I’ll keep it under wraps,” he promised, already envisioning the fun chaos of the day ahead. “Now, let’s get thisparty started. I’ll make sure the grill is fired up and the music is playing to drown out any sibling squabbles.”
