Chapter 10

"Did it hurt?"

It had burned a little, but she shook her head. He gave a sigh of relief and kissed her temple, the intimate gesture making her heart swell. She had not expected to feel this way. She had anticipated pain and emptiness, the bitter feeling of violation — but none of that had come to pass.

"Am I crushing you? One moment."

Riftan lifted himself and withdrew slowly. She felt something viscous leaking inside, making her recoil and draw her legs together. Riftan stopped her firmly.

"R-Riftan…!"

"Stay still. You must be tired. Let me clean you."

Riftan pulled the basin toward him and wrung out a wet towel before bringing it between her legs. She felt the cold towel gently wipe the junction of her thighs.

"Are you sure it doesn't hurt?"

"It d-doesn't."