Seraphina didn't know how to respond. She was still reeling from the kiss, still trying to make sense of the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside her.
Without warning, River leaned down and kissed her again, this time softer, slower, as though savoring the moment. His lips moved against hers with a gentleness that surprised her, a tenderness that made her heart ache.
When he finally pulled away, he rested his forehead against hers, his breath felt warm against her lips. "You will say it again," he whispered, his voice filled with quiet confidence. "Soon."
Seraphina swallowed hard, her body still trembling as she nodded, unsure of what else to say. And then, she heard him saying - "It's time to wake up."
His voice was smooth and commanding, and it immediately sent her out of the beautiful dreamescape. The warmth of his touch began to fade, the vividness of the dream dissolving as her surroundings shifted.