In the dim glow of the grand bedchamber, Maya felt herself almost adrift, the air thick with anticipation and a deep, unspoken understanding. Every nerve in her body was awake, alert, yet softened by Tay’s comforting warmth. His presence beside her was a grounding force as he brushed a few stray strands of hair from her face, his gaze heavy with affection and intent. She could see the conflict in his eyes, an urgency tempered by a profound desire to let this moment unfold at her pace.
She lifted a hand, resting it gently against his chest, feeling his heartbeat steady and strong beneath her fingertips. Her gaze drifted downward as she tentatively undid the remaining buttons of his shirt, fingers trembling slightly, but Tay’s hand covered hers gently, halting her. "Maya..." he began, his
