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Ariel woke to find Horace already watching her. Startled by his intense gaze, she quickly closed her eyes again, pretending to still be asleep. Horace smiled at her reaction.
"My love," he murmured, leaning down to press a soft kiss to her lips.
Ariel slowly opened her eyes, a shy smile curving her mouth.
"Good morning, dear husband."
"Good morning, my dearest wife," he replied, kissing her again—once, twice, lingering until her breath grew uneven.
"How was your sleep?"
Heat crept into Ariel's cheeks. The memory of his relentless presence, even after their long night together, rushed back to her.
"It was… nice," she managed.
"Hm?" He chuckled softly. "Then I suppose I'll have to make sure your sleep is always nice."
"My gorgeous mate." His palm cupped her face tenderly. "You're beauty wrapped in human skin."
He brushed a kiss against the tip of her nose, drawing a giggle from her lips.
