Chapter 74 - Consummation and Confessions

I felt my cheeks flush hot at Alaric's question. The vulnerability of sitting before him with my face completely bare for the first time had opened something within me—a dam of emotion and desire I'd held back for so long.

"Yes," I whispered, my voice steadier than I expected. "I'm ready."

Alaric's eyes darkened, pupils dilating as he held my gaze. His fingers traced the line of my jaw, no hesitation as they moved from the smooth side to the scarred. "You're certain?"

"More certain than I've ever been about anything."

He smiled then, a slow curve of his lips that made my heart skip. "Then let me worship you properly, my wife."

Alaric stood, pulling me gently to my feet. The air between us charged with anticipation as his hands moved to the fastenings of my dress. I'd worn a simple gown today, not expecting this moment but somehow perfectly suited for it—fewer barriers between us.

"You're trembling," he murmured, his fingers pausing.