Sunlight filtered through the heavy curtains, spilling across tangled sheets and two bodies pressed close. Alex stirred first, blinking against the light. The warmth at his back was unmistakable—Riven's arm slung firmly around his waist, his breath brushing the nape of Alex's neck.
The memories of last night came rushing in. Heat, hands, whispered words—the way Riven had touched him like he was something precious. Alex's face flamed. What had he done? He buried his face into the pillow, embarrassment curling hot and sharp in his chest.
As if sensing the shift, Riven's grip tightened. "You're thinking too much again," he murmured, voice low, husky from sleep.
Alex stiffened. "I… I don't know if I should have—if we—"
Riven shifted, rolling him gently onto his back. His dark eyes studied Alex with that unwavering intensity that made it impossible to hide. Then, without hesitation, he pressed a kiss to Alex's forehead. "Stop second-guessing yourself. Nothing about last night was wrong. Not to me. Not ever."
Alex swallowed, eyes darting away. "It's just… everything else. Lord Grevan's words. If the Duke's husband really is alive… if we keep digging, what if we're dragging everyone into danger?"
Riven's lips brushed over Alex's cheek, then his ear. "You're not dragging anyone, Cupcake. They're walking with you. Edrin, Kael, Saphira—they want the truth as much as you do. And me?" He smirked faintly, though his voice stayed soft. "I'd follow you into hell itself. No questions asked."
Alex's chest tightened, but the fear loosened, if only a little. He let Riven's forehead rest against his, their breaths mingling.
"Thank you," Alex whispered.
"Don't thank me," Riven said, stealing a slow kiss that lingered until Alex melted against him. "Just stay with me."
For a while, they simply lay there, trading lazy kisses and quiet touches until the morning pressed closer. Eventually, with a reluctant sigh, Alex let Riven pull him from the bed. They bathed together, laughter and flushed cheeks mixing with the steam, before dressing side by side—an intimacy fragile, but steadying.
By the time they entered the dining hall, the others were already gathered. The long table was set with fruit, bread, and steaming tea. Lady Marriane sat poised as ever, her calculating gaze softening slightly when Alex took his seat.
Edrin leaned forward first, grin boyish as always. "You look… rested."
Alex shot him a look, ears burning, but before he could respond, Kael spoke with calm certainty. "Whatever doubts you have, leave them. We chose this path. Together."
Saphira nodded, her tone sharp but resolute. "You're not carrying this alone, Rosetta. Don't you dare try."
Lady Marriane lifted her teacup, her words measured but not unkind. "You have allies, Alex. Strong ones. Do not underestimate that."
Alex looked around the table, at their faces—serious, steady, unwavering. For a moment, the weight in his chest lightened.
"Alright," he said softly, but firmly. "Together, then."
Beneath the table, Riven's fingers found his, warm and steady, giving the smallest squeeze. Alex glanced at him, and Riven's smirk softened into something only Alex ever got to see.
The promise was clear: he wasn't alone. Not anymore.
✨ Author's Note ✨
Alex waking up all shy and second-guessing himself after that night?? My baby 😭💖 And Riven out here being the most supportive, reassuring menace ever… sir, you're raising the standard way too high 😤🔥 The cuddles, the kisses, the group standing behind Alex like true ride-or-dies… I'm soft, I'm weak, I'm in LOVE.
Thank you for reading 💕