Legacy of Healing

Chapter 23: Shower

As they lay tangled together in the aftermath, Elijah's arms remained wrapped around Anastasia.

"Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?" he murmured, brushing a stray hair away from her face and looking deeply into her eyes. His gaze was filled with a mix of admiration and something more possessive, making her heart flutter.

Anastasia smiled shyly, feeling a rush of affection. "You always know how to make me blush," she said, her voice soft but teasing.

"Good," he replied, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "Because I plan on making you blush a lot more."

"Is that a promise?" she asked, raising an eyebrow, feeling the excitement spark between them again.

"Absolutely," he said, leaning down to capture her lips in another soft kiss, which quickly deepened as the heat of the moment rekindled. Their kisses grew more fervent, and she could feel his desire rising once more. "But first, let's enjoy this," he said, pulling back slightly and tracing his fingers along her arm.

She shivered at his touch, feeling a warm rush at his possessive gaze. "I could get used to this," she admitted, her heart racing.

"Good," he said firmly, his fingers gently caressing her cheek. "Because I want to create so many moments like this with you. Just us, lost in our own world."

The sincerity in his voice sent a thrill through her. "I want that too," she confessed, her heart swelling with the weight of their shared intimacy.

Elijah's expression turned serious for a moment as he brushed his thumb across her bottom lip. "I mean it, Anastasia. I'm not just talking about today. I want you in my life—like, really in my life. I can't help but think about our future."

Her heart raced at his words, a mix of excitement and uncertainty swirling within her. They had talked about kids before, and while she felt that connection deepening, she wasn't fully ready to explore that territory yet. "You know I've always been a little hesitant about that," she said softly, her gaze dropping for a moment.

"I know," he replied, his voice gentle yet insistent. "But it feels different with you. I want to build something with you, a life that's ours. Just think about it—us, a family, making memories. I can't shake the thought of it."

The intensity of his words made her heart race, and she met his gaze again, feeling vulnerable yet hopeful. "I can see us being a family one day," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I just need a little more time to figure things out."

Elijah nodded, his eyes softening. "I understand, and I'll give you that time. But just know, I'm in this for the long haul. You've captured my heart completely."

Feeling the warmth spread through her, Anastasia smiled, her nerves settling. "You make me feel safe, Elijah. I've never felt this way before."

He grinned, his possessiveness shining through. "That's because I'm not letting you go. You're mine, and I'll always protect what's ours."

Elijah suddenly stood up, pulling her along with him. "How about we continue our cozy day with a shower?" he suggested, mischief dancing in his eyes.

Anastasia laughed, feeling a spark of excitement at the idea. "Together?"

"Of course," he said, his tone serious but playful. "I want to wash away the day with you—literally. And I promise to keep it fun."

She followed him to the bathroom, their laughter echoing as they entered the steamy space. Elijah turned on the water, and soon, warm droplets began cascading down, filling the air with a comforting warmth.