Court Of Shadows and Lies

38. Whispers of a Rumour

I took a deep breath, feeling both nervous and exhilarated. "If you enjoyed it... do you want to do it again?" I asked, my heart racing at the prospect.

Serene’s cheeks turned a deep crimson, and he looked down, shyly nodding. "I... I wouldn’t mind," he murmured, glancing up at me with those wide, innocent eyes.

His response sent a thrill through me. I couldn’t help but smile. "Really? Even after everything that happened?"

He nodded again, this time more firmly. "Yeah. I mean, if you want to. I liked being close to you."

Close to me… The warmth of his words wrapped around my heart, stirring something deep within. I felt bold in that moment, and I slowly leaned closer, searching his gaze for any hesitation.

Serene met my eyes, his breath catching slightly as I moved nearer. The space between us felt electric, charged with unspoken emotions.

"Then let’s be close," I whispered, my voice barely above a murmur.

As I shifted, his hands found my waist, a gentle but firm touch that sent a wave of warmth through me. I leaned in, capturing his lips with mine, soft and hesitant at first. But as he responded, kissing me back with a sweetness that made my heart flutter, the kiss deepened, growing more passionate.

His hands traveled up my sides, pulling me closer as our bodies melted together. I could feel his heart racing against mine, matching the rhythm of the moment.

I pulled away slightly, looking into his eyes, which sparkled with a mixture of innocence and desire. "You’re okay with this, right?"

He smiled shyly, brushing a strand of hair from my face. "I am. I want to be close to you, Cessalie."

His sincerity ignited a warmth within me. I leaned in again, capturing his lips in another kiss, this one more fervent. As our lips moved together, I could feel the world outside fade away, leaving just the two of us in our own little universe.

With each kiss, I felt more emboldened, exploring the tender connection we were forging. It was exhilarating, a mix of passion and innocence that made my heart soar.

Serene pulled me closer, his hands finding their way to my back, holding me securely as if he never wanted to let go. I felt a rush of emotions—happiness, excitement, and a fluttering nervousness that danced in my stomach.

In that moment, everything felt right. I knew we were crossing a line, but it felt so good to be together like this, sharing something that was uniquely ours.

----------------

I looked at myself in the mirror, wearing an elegant, floor-length gown in a soft cream-white hue adorned with intricate gold embroidery. The square neckline of the bodice gave it a structured but graceful look, with golden floral patterns climbing up from the waist. The long, billowing sleeves added a regal touch, cinched at the wrists with ornate cuffs. The skirt flowed smoothly, its hem embellished with gold designs that added an extra luxurious feel.

Serene stood near the window, staring outside.

Another one of our private sessions... Is he even enjoying this, or is it just one long trauma for him?

He was also dressed in white—his shirt had gold embroidery on the cuffs, and he wore high-waisted trousers.

Why are we matching?

I tucked the stray strands of hair behind my ear and walked over to him.

"Serene, let's go," I said.

He turned toward me, his expression as blank as ever. "I remember... what that that man said."