Dark Eros

19

Frustration clouded his face as he sat in the kings throne. The very seat that now belonged to him. And still it felt unfamiliar...wrong somehow. He found no peace during the day, only exhaustion and constant decision making.

What crops were to be harvested first? What animal hide was to be cured next? What deserved prayer? How much was too much? How much was too little? A lack of something caused quick distress. Too much of something caused greediness. He had to visit his people, talk with his people. Be wise yet be empathetic. Be kind yet know when to be cruel. One disparity and chaos ensued.

His mother stilled wallowed in her grief though she pretended not to be. His sisters were not a loud or as cheerful as they had one been.

Nothing felt the same but still he found comfort in the arms of the woman he loved. The nights were his favorite, the only thing he looked forward to after his long, taxing days.

In Ife's arms was warmth and genuine affection that asked for nothing in return. In her eyes were understanding and empathy that he was thankful for. She brought smiles to his face and laughter to his lips with a quickness that he appreciated.

He sighed, standing, glad that the night had finally come. The sun was it's descent down as he made his way to his safe haven. Where was the pleasure in being king? In being the ruler, the sole decision maker of so many?

Many longed for this, yearned for such a title and yet he was sure that if men really knew what it entailed they would quickly change their minds.

He pushed aside the cloth door and stepped inside his hut. Peace quickly clouded his mind as he was welcomed to a smile on Ife's face. Mashed beans seasoned in fragrant herbs and fire cooked meat waited for him but he was not hungry for food. He was starved for her embrace, her kisses. Her voice calling his name in the soothing way she always said it.

He fell to his knees on their bed, falling into her arms, inhaling the scent that was so uniquely hers. They stayed that way, locked in quiet affection, holding each other.

The night dragged on, slow in it's passing.

"You're not happy." She mumbled to him in the night, though darkness encompassed them, it did not stop their searching hands or gentle caresses.

Fumnaya stayed silent for a moment, not quite sure how to answer her. He was conflicted. With her he was happy, on the throne he had a duty, an obligation. Sometimes, on rare occasions, he felt pride but those days were few and far between.

"I struggle to be." He admitted, knowing it was okay to share his vulnerability with her.

Her fingertips caress his bare chest, leaving a trail of warmth behind. He caught her hand and brought it to his lips, kissing her palm. "But with you I am always with contentment."

At his words she pulled him close and kissed him.

Weeks had come and gone. Ife stood staring at the door, waiting for Fumnaya to return. Her body was changing. Her breast were fuller. Her nipples much more sensitive. She was so much quicker to arouse. And she had yet to bleed while being in close proximity to Fumnaya.

She was not surprised at the truth that lay inside her. She had seen it in his his future, the children that they would one day made make. Had heard them crying, had heard them laughing in her ears.

The cloth swayed as Fumnaya emerged, the tired look on his face vanishing as he gazed upon her. He was no longer looking as rundown as he first did. He was growing used to his position though he refused to admit. Just as he refused to admit that he was weary.

She walked over to him, meeting him as he entered.

He caught her face in his hands and kissed her lovingly. She knew he loved her, had seen the sparkle in his blue eyes the moment his lust had melted away to the deeper emotion. Upon seeing it she had reveled in it, realizing that deep down, she had always loved him. And always would. She clutched his wrists in her hands, giving them a gentle squeeze.

She stepped away, tugging him toward the door. "Come with me." She said as she pulled him along, urging him to follow her.

Curiosity painted his face but he followed her.