Feral Bonds

Chapter 58: Reaffirming Bonds

The morning light filtered softly through the trees surrounding the cabin, casting a warm golden glow across the wooden floor. Akecheta stirred first, his body comfortably nestled beneath the blankets. His eyes fluttered open, taking in the familiar sight of Cernunnos resting beside him. The god looked peaceful in the soft morning light, his features relaxed, his breath slow and steady. Akecheta watched him for a moment, feeling the warmth of affection blossom in his chest. There was something calming about seeing Cernunnos like this—unguarded, serene, just a man sharing the same quiet space.

Akecheta smiled, slipping out of bed as quietly as he could manage, careful not to wake him. He padded barefoot across the wooden floor, his movements light as he began his morning routine. The cabin was silent, save for the soft sounds of nature just outside the window—the rustle of leaves, the distant call of birds. It was peaceful here, and Akecheta had come to love these quiet moments where it was just the two of them.

In the small kitchen, Akecheta moved with purpose. He knew Cernunnos enjoyed simple things—fresh bread, tea made from wild herbs, the comforts of the earth itself. Akecheta took care in preparing breakfast, the familiar tasks grounding him. He loved caring for Cernunnos, not just because of the bond they shared, but because it brought him joy to see the god at ease, to see the weight of the wild lifted from his shoulders, even for a little while.

As the smell of freshly baked bread filled the cabin, Akecheta returned to the bedroom with a tray in hand. He placed it gently on the bedside table, sitting down beside Cernunnos and leaning in to press a soft kiss to the god's temple.

"Good morning," Akecheta whispered, his voice warm with affection.

Cernunnos stirred, his eyes fluttering open as a small, contented smile curved his lips. "Morning," he murmured, his voice low and still touched with sleep. His eyes softened as he gazed at Akecheta, a sense of peace settling over him.

"I made breakfast," Akecheta said, his fingers brushing lightly through Cernunnos's hair, smoothing it back in gentle strokes. The touch was instinctive now, the need to care for him as natural as breathing.

Cernunnos shifted slightly, reaching out to take Akecheta's hand in his, pulling him close. "You spoil me," he said, his voice still heavy with sleep, but his tone filled with warmth.

Akecheta smiled, leaning in to kiss him softly, his lips brushing against Cernunnos's in a tender, lingering caress. "You deserve it," Akecheta whispered against his lips before pulling back slightly. His thumb brushed over Cernunnos's cheek, his touch light and reverent.

They sat together for a few quiet moments, the weight of the world outside forgotten as they simply enjoyed the peace of the morning. Akecheta picked up a piece of bread from the tray and handed it to Cernunnos, their fingers brushing as they exchanged a quiet smile.

As Cernunnos ate, Akecheta continued to dote on him, running his hands gently along the god's shoulders, massaging the tension from his muscles with slow, deliberate movements. Cernunnos closed his eyes, his body relaxing under Akecheta's touch, and Akecheta felt a swell of affection for him—this powerful, ancient god who had chosen to share his life with him, who had given him safety and love.

Akecheta leaned in closer, pressing his lips softly to Cernunnos's neck, feeling the warmth of his skin against his mouth. The gesture was tender, a quiet moment of intimacy shared between them. Cernunnos hummed in contentment, tilting his head slightly to give Akecheta more access.

"You take such good care of me," Cernunnos murmured, his voice filled with gratitude.

Akecheta smiled against his skin, trailing light kisses along Cernunnos's neck before pulling back to meet his eyes. "I want to," he said softly, his voice full of sincerity. "I love seeing you like this—happy, at peace."