“I love you, too, Cam. Sleep.”
I let myself drift away in Piper’s embrace, feeling safe, loved, andgrateful.
Seven
PIPER
As I watch Cameron sleeping in my arms, I ponder how she’s changed my life—how she’s changedme. Society tends to judge and form opinions based on the most superficial aspects of a person: where they were raised, their education, career, appearance, style of dress, and manner of speech. Those things tell you where a person has been and what they do. To honestly know someone, you must dive deep, layer by layer, and risk drowning in them. For me, that’s what being with Cameron is like—an exhilarating descent into the uncharted depths of our beings, where we navigate through darkness to find the light within each other. It’s a never-ending journey, constantly revealing parts of ourselves we’ve yet to discover. While floating with someone can provide a sense of security, the electrifying sensation of going below the surface is unparalleled. I feel her shift against me, and the need to feel her closer overwhelms me. My hands caress her back as she shifts to look into my eyes.
Her gaze is filled with a mixture of vulnerability and desire. I see the reflection of my longing mirrored back at me. We’veembarked on this adventure together, willingly diving into the depths of our souls, and now we stand at the precipice of something greater. The connection between us crackles with intensity, like an electric current waiting to surge.
As I lean closer, our lips connect in a powerful kiss that stirs my heart and reveals a profound truth. I never want to be without Cameron in my life. I’ve waited a lifetime for her—for us. Our bodies meld together as if we were always meant to fit perfectly. The world fades away, and it’s just her and I—two souls entwined in a dance of love and self-discovery.
With each brush of our lips and every sweep of our hands along each other’s skin, we shed expectations and judgments like the discarded clothing on the floor. Our bodies become one, moving in a delicate and intricate dance fueled by passion and trust. In this moment of raw vulnerability, fears and inhibitions dissipate into the abyss as we surrender to the love that consumes us. As my lips reverently explore every inch of her skin, I realize with bittersweet clarity this is the first time I’ve truly made love. Time loses its hold on me as I place her beneath me. I smile at her and sweep the hair from her eyes.
“You’re my everything,” I tell her.
“Piper.”
I’ve given myself to someone and allowed them to fulfill the desire that ignites deep within my body. Cameron’s mere presence evokes a longing so intense that it can only find solace in the softness of her embrace—a union where we unite as equals—give and take. She releases a muted sigh, and the room instantly goes silent, except for the rhythmic pounding of our hearts, mirroring the intensity of our emotions. Her skin feels like silk beneath my fingertips, and the warmth of her breath upon my neck sends shivers down my spine. Each touch, each loving kiss, leaves an imprint on the fabric of my soul.
The words “I love you” take on a new depth of meaning in this intimate embrace, and I know I would do anything to protect and cherish her. The raindrops outside provide a soothing soundtrack as I explore every inch of her skin with my tender caresses. Our eyes meet, full of longing and desire. Making love with Cameron is an emotional and sensual experience that I never want to end.
Cameron’s hand slips between us, stroking me gently, and my heart clenches with understanding.
“Cam,” I whisper.
“I love you, Piper.”
We move together effortlessly, instinctively anticipating each other’s needs, rising like a wave toward the shore. Her eyes meet mine, offering solace that she will rescue me from the depths of my fears. She’s like the ocean–deep and mysterious, teeming with life and color.
“Stay with me, Piper.”
As the wave swells, we hold onto each other, feeling its powerful force, throwing us into the unknown depths and leaving us at its mercy. Gasping for air, we struggle until the wave finally retreats, and we peacefully drift back to the shore.
Cameron cups my face in the palms of her hands.
“I’ll never let you go, Cam.”
She smiles and kisses me. “Is that right?”
The gravity of my words isn’t lost on me. “Cam, I’ve never said that to someone. I’ve never?—”
Cameron silences me with another kiss. “I know, Piper. Everything with us is new for me, too.”
“Thank you.”
“Why are you thanking me?” Cameron asks.
“For loving me.”
“Oh, Piper. You never need to thank me for loving you. My life is so much better with you in it—every part.”
I lie back and pull Cameron into my arms. I close my eyes and revel in her warmth pressed against me.
“Piper?”
“Hm?”