Turning her head, Rebecca half-expected to find Freen beside her. But the other side of the bed was empty and cool to the touch. She felt disappointed and her eyes flickered to the window. The light was beginning to seep through the edges of her curtains. She sat up and rubbed at her eyes, trying to blink away the sleepiness as she stared out into the brightening skyline beyond her window.

Though she knew the constraints of their reality, part of her had dared to hope this newfound closeness with Freen could last just a little while longer before the demands of the day stole them apart again. Before Rebecca could linger too long on the thought of having to be parted from Freen so soon after tasting the bliss of her company, there came a soft rap at the door - no doubt it was Elara, coming in to wake her up and assist with the morning routine.

"Just a moment," she called out, her voice still husky with the last traces of sleep. She had no desire for Elara to see how disheveled she looked.

Quickly, Rebecca rose and padded across the chamber to the washbasin. She slipped out of her nightwear, letting it pool at her feet and splashed her face with water. The shock of the cold water was enough to wake her up and she quickly splashed her face with more water.

As she reached for a towel to dry her face, she caught a glimpse of how she looked in the mirror. A soft blush crept across her cheeks as she took in her disheveled appearance – her hair tousled (from sleep), her lips slightly swollen from the feverish kisses she had shared with Freen. But what truly caused her breath to catch in her throat were the marks that had formed on her skin.

A trail of love bites peppered her neck. They were still faint, but the bruises from Freen's lips could be seen clearly against her pale skin. She turned her head, running a finger over the marks. They were more pronounced on the side of her neck where her gland was and she smiled to herself as the memories flooded her. Even the top of her breast bore the faint imprint of Freen's lips, the sight sending a delicious shiver down Rebecca's spine.

"What a site to wake up to," she murmured, her eyes roving over the marks. She had to admit, she liked the way they looked on her skin. It was a far cry from her previous disdain for them. She could remember a time when she had viewed others with such marking as immature and undignified. A sign of a lack of upbringing.

But look at her now. She realized how wrong she had been. There was a certain beauty in the marks, a physical reminder of Freen's presence in her life and it made Rebecca feel warm inside just looking at them. She had never felt so alive, and she wondered if it was possible to be this happy.

A demure smile played at the corners of her mouth as she remembered the way Freen's lips had teased her and tormented her the previous night. She could still feel the heat of those kisses, how they had made her body ache with an insatiable desire, building a need that she hadn't known possible before last night.

She ran a hand down to cup one of her breasts, feeling how sensitive and tender they were still from all the attention they had received. She could still feel the warmth of Freen's mouth on her skin, how she had nibbled and squeezed on them until she was a whimpering, breathless mess tangled in the sheets. She remembered how she had begged for more, the way her voice trembled as Freen's mouth worked on her breast. She had never felt so vulnerable, and yet so alive.

Her skin flushed warm at the memory of Freen's attention trailing lower, her lips kissing a path across every inch of exposed flesh. She squeezed her thighs together instinctively, chasing the phantom memory of the tension that had built to an almost unbearable peak. She had been so close to giving in, but she was glad that Freen hadn't pushed her. Not yet at least.

A soft knock at the door jarred Rebecca from her reverie. She hurriedly reached for her robe and slipped it on, tying the belt around her waist to conceal the marks on her skin. Only then did she realize the slight sheen of sweat on her skin.

She hurried to the washbasin and splashed her face with cold water, willing her flushed skin to cool before Elara could tell something was wrong.

"Princess?" Elara's muffled voice called again from the other side of the door, laced with concern. "Are you okay?"

"Y-Yes, I'm alright Elara," Rebecca managed to reply, relieved to find her voice steady. "You can come in."

Rebecca turned her attention back to the mirror, studying herself in earnest for a moment before sighing and turning away from it with an air of resignation. She refused to linger too long on thoughts that could quickly spiral into fantasies unbecoming of a lady. Though the ache of longing still gripped her, she knew idle daydreams would only make the pining worse. Best to focus on the day ahead.

She quickly ran a damp cloth over her heated skin, trying to erase any lingering evidence of the private reverie she had been lost in just moments before. Straightening her robe, Rebecca walked back to her room as the door creaked open.

Elara entered, her brow furrowed with concern as she took in Rebecca's flustered state. "Everything alright, my lady?" Her eyes then widened slightly as they landed on the reddish mark peeking out from beneath the collar of Rebecca's robe.

A flush crept up Rebecca's neck. Of course Elara would notice. They had been far too close for far too long to have any real secrets between them. Rebecca opened her mouth, ready with some flimsy excuse, but the words never came. Instead, she gave Elara a bashful look.

Elara's lips twitched in an amused smirk. "I see the Princess had a...stimulating evening," she remarked wryly, though her tone remained warm and free of judgment. "Should I fetch something to conceal that rather telling blemish? Or does discretion no longer matter now that you've found your partner?"

Rebecca responded with a look that was part sheepish grin, part satisfied contentment. A soft blush tinted her cheeks as she tried to cover her mark on her neck with her robe.

"Elara!" Rebecca stammered. "I-It's nothing like that." She looked away from Elara, not being able to look in her eyes out of embarrassment and cleared her throat awkwardly before turning back to face the other woman.

"But perhaps some powder to conceal them would be great, if you would be so kind," Rebecca shyly requested, her blush deepening as the implication that there were multiple marks to cover hung unspoken between them. While she cared little about maintaining discretion where Freen was concerned, she knew openly bearing the marks could raise complicated questions.

Elara gave her a big grin, no further explanation needed from her princess. "Of course, princess. I'll gather what's needed." Elara then moved to retrieve the cosmetic creams, allowing Rebecca a brief moment of privacy.

"Oh, and Princess?" Elara called out as she was about to leave the room. "I'm glad you found someone who can finally satisfy you, my lady," she said.

Rebecca winced slightly at Elara's suggestive words, but couldn't help the small smile that played at the corners of her mouth. She waited until Elara had exited the room before allowing the memories of the previous night to wash over her once more.

The way Freen's hands were all over her, the way she had kiss her - it had been more incredible than Rebecca could have ever imagined. She traced the bruises with her fingers, her skin tingling at the memories they evoked. She had never felt so desired, so wanted.

For so long, Rebecca had resigned herself to an arranged political match, never daring to dream she could find true love and desire with someone. But Freen had awoken feelings within her that she didn't know existed. Each kiss, each caress had set her body on fire, and she had found herself craving for more.

How could something that felt so right, so true, be against her parents and her kingdom's wishes. Freen was an omega, not one of the alpha suitors her parents had chosen. Their bond would never be accepted, no matter how deeply Rebecca's heart had been captured. She was not a fool. She knew the risks of being with Freen, but she couldn't help herself. Her heart had made its choice and there was no going back now.

Rebecca knew she would have to be careful if she wanted them to work. The thought of never seeing Freen again was unbearable. She had only just found her and she didn't want anything to get in her way just yet. For now, Rebecca wanted to keep their newfound relationship sheltered, a precious secret just for the two of them. To exist in this little bubble of intimacy and passion they had created, at least for a while longer.

Once their relationship was out in the open, Rebecca knew the realities of their situation would inevitably crash down upon them. Her parents' disapproval, the political ramifications, the societal stigma - it would all come bearing down, threatening to smother whatever they had created between them.

But if they kept things hidden for the time being, they could continue to bask in the warm glow of their love undisturbed. Rebecca could revel in Freen's affections, drink deeply of her intoxicating presence, without care for the consequences. At least until she found the courage and resolve to fight for what her heart so desperately craved. So for now, she wanted to savor every moment, etch every sensation into her memory.

Lost in the reverie of reminiscing about Freen's skilled touch, Rebecca's fingers began to absentmindedly trace along the marks on her breast. Her eyelids fluttered closed as she allowed the sensory memories to wash over her - the feeling of Freen's lips and tongue scorching trail across her skin, the intoxicating blend of desire and devotion in every caress.

A soft sigh escaped Rebecca's lips as she replayed the scenes from last night. The way Freen had gradually built the tension higher and higher until Rebecca was a trembling, whimpering mess beneath her. How Freen's mouth and fingers worked on her, drawing out every moan and whimper from her lips.

It was in this state of blissful surrender that Elara found Rebecca upon her return - cheeks flushed, lips parted ever so slightly, her chest rising and falling with quiet need. The princess's fingers were still idly tracing the marks on her breast, as if reliving every moment of her encounter with her lover. Elara couldn't help but notice how aroused Rebecca was with her nipples erect beneath the thin robe.

For a brief moment, Elara could have sworn she detected the faintest hints of lovers unmistakable scent still clinging to Rebecca's skin - that fresh but slightly tangy, citrus aroma. However it was overpowered by Rebecca's own rose-tinged omega pheromones that hung heavy in the air. It was clear the princess had been thoroughly overwhelmed by memories of her lover's skilled touch.

Clearing her throat softly so as not to startle, Elara spoke up. "I've brought the powders, my lady." She kept her tone carefully neutral, though the corners of her lips threatened to quirk upwards.

Rebecca's eyes snapped open, that blissful, dreamy, pleasure-glazed look immediately giving way to one of abject mortification as she realized Elara had caught her in such an unguarded state. A furious crimson blush flooded her cheeks as she struggled to collect herself, hands instinctively moving to cover her face.

"Th-thank you, Elara," Rebecca stammered out, unable to meet the other woman's gaze. She felt utterly exposed, as if Elara could somehow detect the vivid memories playing through Rebecca's mind mere moments ago.

To her credit, Elara did not tease or make light of Rebecca's obvious embarrassment. Instead, she busied herself with selecting an outfit for the princess to wear for the day, allowing a few beats of silence to pass.

"I've laid out a few options for you, my lady," Elara said evenly, as if she hadn't just discovered Rebecca in the throes of private longing. "Did you have any particular plans or engagements today?"

The mundane question helped ground Rebecca, allowing her to push aside the mortification and slip back into a sense of familiarity. She exhaled slowly, raising her eyes to meet Elara's warm, understanding gaze.

"Just...just my usual meetings and audiences this morning," Rebecca replied, silently grateful for Elara. "I'll be spending the afternoon at the Grand Library. I don't believe I have anything planned then."

Elara nodded, her expression softening slightly. "Very well then," she said as she began to choose an outfit from the pile of clothes she laid out. "I'll have the maids set out your afternoon tea in one of our private reading nooks."

"Oh, that would be lovely," Rebecca said, her voice still sounding slightly embarrassed. "Perhaps some of those rose shortbreads as well?"

"Of course, Princess." Elara chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mirth once again. "Indulging in treats for your afternoon delights, are we?" she couldn't resist teasing lightly. "I'll make sure to inform the kitchen maids to make sure to make them extra delicious."

"Elara!" Rebecca swatted her arm lightly, but she laughed despite her embarrassment at her handmaiden's attempt at prodding her for more information. "You're incorrigible, you know that?"

"Forgive me, Princess." Elara grinned unrepentantly. "Is there anything else I should schedule for your afternoon besides the tea and shortbreads...?"

She arched an eyebrow meaningfully. Rebecca ducked her head, but not before Elara caught the small smile playing across the princess's lips.

"I may need to slip away for a brief...personal matter at some point," Rebecca admitted quietly.

Though she did not elaborate further, the heated flush returning to her cheeks spoke volumes. Elara gave the princess a knowing smile, her eyes twinkling with barely contained amusement.

"A personal matter, is it?" Elara couldn't resist teasing lightly. "How peculiar. I wonder if this personal matter involves that special someone who has you in such a state this morning."

Rebecca's face flushed a deeper shade of red, but she matched Elara's smile with one of her own. "Perhaps," was all she offered in return, though her eyes danced with happiness.

Chuckling fondly, Elara shook her head. "You're positively glowing, Princess. Now, let's get you looking presentable for your public duties first."

She retrieved the cosmetic powders and moved to begin covering the lovebites peppering Rebecca's skin. As Elara applied the tinted powder, she caught the soft, wistful expression on the princess's face and couldn't help but smile indulgently. "It does my heart good to see you so happy, Princess," Elara said warmly. "Whoever has captured your heart must be quite special indeed."

Rebecca's expression softened, but her eyes sparkled with a joy Elara hadn't seen in years. "She is, Elara. Truly, she is the most wonderful person I've ever known."

Rebecca's fingers drifted up to lightly trace the marks along her neck as she spoke. "When we're together, it's as if the rest of the world falls away and there is only us remaining. I can scarcely put it into words how she makes me feel."

She let out a breathless little laugh, cheeks flushing anew. "And yet at the same time, she's the most maddening, infuriating, person I know. There are times that she pushes the boundaries of my desires... but she has a way of knowing just how far to take me before pulling back... leaving me...for some reason... aching for her attention more...It's both exhilarating and terrifying at once..."

Rebecca's voice trailed off, taken on a husky tone as she confided in Elara. Elara could feel the heat rising in her own cheeks as she listened to Rebecca. She had never seen the princess so... open and vulnerable. It was a side of her that she hadn't thought she would witness, but it made sense in light of Rebecca's newfound happiness with her mysterious lover. Safe to say, it was both endearing to see and a little unsettling.

"She knows exactly how to tease and taunt me until I'm utterly undone," the princess continued, seemingly lost in the memories. "I hope I can make her feel as good... I want to be able to make her lose control like she does me. But she... She seems content with teasing me endlessly." Rebecca sighed wistfully before letting out a soft laugh that was laced with both amusement and frustration. "I suppose it's not all that bad... I mean, the anticipation is part of what makes me feel such a way... and I have to admit, she is quite skilled at what she does..."

Elara swallowed hard, her fingers faltering slightly when she started to apply the concealer on Rebecca's breast. She tried to focus on the task at hand, but it proved increasingly difficult to avoid imagining the scenarios Rebecca's words so vividly conjured. She could feel her own body responding with arousal but she tried her best to ignore it.

A hushed sigh from the princess made Elara's eyes flick up involuntarily. Rebecca's own gaze had gone unfocused, lips slightly parted, and features softened.

"I know it sounds silly... But I want to make her mine. I want to be the one who makes her lose control. I want to be the one making her gasp-"

"Sh-She certainly sounds...talented, Princess," Elara quickly cut in, her voice sounding as little more than a strained croak. She cleared her throat in a feeble attempt to clear the lump that had formed there. "I can see why you find her so...captivating."

The spell seemed to break then, Rebecca's unfocused gaze clearing as she registered the effect her words were having on her flustered handmaiden.

"Oh! I...Elara, I'm so sorry," Rebecca stammered out quickly, color flooding her face - this time from embarrassment. "I keep getting utterly carried away thinking about her. How terribly inappropriate of me."

She buried her face in her hands with a quiet groan. "You must think me completely lacking in decorum. Here I am, getting carried away when you're just trying to attend to me. I've made you dreadfully uncomfortable, haven't I?"

Peeking up at Elara from between her fingers, Rebecca looked for a moment like the shy, innocent girl she knew. Her expression was contrite, apologetic for overstepping the boundaries of propriety in her musings.

Rebecca bit her lip, attempting to regain her composure. She knew the realities of her situation made openly acknowledging this love impossible. But in this moment, with Elara whom she trusted implicitly, Rebecca allowed herself to bask in the memories a while longer.

Though flushed, Elara couldn't help but feel her embarrassment quickly melting into tenderness at Rebecca's behavior. A warm smile curved her lips as she took in the princess's flustered expression.

"Now, now, Princess," Elara chided gently. "There's no need for that. In truth, I'm simply overjoyed to see you so happy." Elara's smile widened. "Whoever this special someone is, they've woken something within you that I haven't witnessed in years. You deserve to experience love, no matter how unorthodox the situation may be."

Letting out a soft chuckle, she arched one teasing eyebrow. "Though perhaps next time, a touch more discretion when I'm applying your concealer, hmm? I'd hate for my hands to slip from...distraction."

The light ribbing had the desired effect of coaxing a laugh from Rebecca as well, relaxing the tension that had briefly fallen between them. Cheeks still adorably flushed, the princess ducked her head in acknowledgment.

"Sorry Elara," she teased shyly. "Please finish attending to me. I promise to not get carried away with my thoughts and distract you further."

Rebecca lifted her chin, granting Elara better access as she made an exaggerated gesture of composing herself. Her eyes still danced with self-consciousness, however, not quite able to disguise her utter contentment.

Elara chuckled fondly, shaking her head as she resumed applying the concealing powder. "I'll hold you to that promise, my lady," she remarked wryly. "Though I can't make any guarantees about refraining from further teasing if you insist on wearing your heart on your sleeve."

Rebecca was blushing again, but she didn't try to hide the wide smile that bloomed across her face. "Don't you dare," she warned without any real heat. "I'll never hear the end of it."

"Oh, undoubtedly," Elara agreed easily. "There, all traces concealed" She locked eyes with Rebecca, her own gaze knowing. "For public eyes, at least."

Rebecca felt her cheeks warm, but she simply inclined her head gratefully. "You have my thanks, Elara. As always."

"Though if you'll permit some advice from me?" Elara met Rebecca's gaze conspiratorially. "Perhaps have your special someone aim a little lower next time. Makes things easier to hide."

She gave Rebecca a wink, letting the princess know she meant no offense.

Rebecca's eyes went wide in surprise at Elara's suggestive remark. "Elara!" she gasped, torn between shock and amusement at her handmaiden's audacity. She opened and closed her mouth a few times, seemingly at a loss for a comeback to match Elara's playful candor.

Her handmaiden simply grinned shamelessly. "A lady must remain observant of all manners of propriety, my princess," she quipped with an exaggerated air of innocence. "Purely in the interests of providing the most comprehensive counsel, you understand."

Finally, she let out a peal of laughter, finding herself unbothered by Elara's suggestive remarks, after her initial surprise. In truth, Elara's inappropriate comments would have put her into a scandalized fluster, before she had known Freen. She was much more sheltered than others might think. But now, after experiencing such pleasures with Freen, the way her lips had trailed along her breasts, tongue sucking her nipples until she was squirming with need, she found an odd sense of delight in Elara's teasing.

Perhaps it was the lingering scent of Freen still clinging to her skin that made Rebecca more receptive to the impropriety. Or maybe it was simply the newfound freedom of being able to openly acknowledge her desires, even in this roundabout way. Whatever the reason, she no longer felt the knee-jerk urge to retreat behind propriety's veil.

Shaking her head, Rebecca fixed Elara with a look of feigned disapproval. "I should have you disciplined for such impertinence." She tried to fix Elara with a reproachful glare, but her amusement clearly ruined the effect.

Elara curtseyed deeply, fighting to keep her expression solemn. "As you wish, Princess. Though I dare say that, you should probably keep those punishments and disciplines for your lover. They would likely only fuel your passion further."

Rebecca's eyes went wide, a furious blush staining her cheeks at the outrageously improper insinuation. Though she had grown somewhat accustomed to Elara's teasing now, her handmaiden's remarks had clearly crossed a new threshold of audacity.

Elara's eyes danced with laughter at her princess expression. "Unless that's precisely what you were going for? In which case, I remain dutifully at your service to...oversee such punishments."

"El-Elara!" Rebecca sputtered, taken aback and at a loss for words. She felt utterly unprepared for this sort of teasing and really, she couldn't believe what she was hearing. "You are utterly incorrigible! What am I to do with you?"

Her handmaiden had basically offered to witness to - or even facilitate - any manner of salacious disciplinary scenario Rebecca might devise with Freen. It was such an outrageous comment that she found herself musing the idea which lit an altogether different sort of fire low in her belly. Her lips parted on a soft exhale as she imagined subjecting Freen to such "discipline" - or perhaps being on the receiving end of those skilled hands doling out punishment and pleasure in equal measure.

The thought alone was enough to set Rebecca's pulse fluttering. She could feel the heat prickling along her skin, that unique floral musk of arousal no doubt wafting through the air once more. Elara's keen senses would easily detect the shift in the atmosphere surrounding the princess.

Rather than deny or deflect, Rebecca met Elara's heated gaze with one of her own - open, unguarded, daring. "Careful what you offer, Elara," she murmured, voice dropping to a throaty register. "Lest I be...tempted to take you up on it someday."

A flash of surprise flickered across Elara's face, clearly not expecting that reaction from her. Rebecca couldn't blame her, honestly. Before her trysts with Freen, she had never once desired anyone, let alone considered engaging in such acts of intimacy - possibly due to being a product of her strict upbringing and the expectations placed upon her as the Crown Princess.

Now, though?

She found herself rather enjoying the thrill of romance. She was, after all, a woman in love. And if she was to be forced into mating someone, then at least she would enjoy it with the woman who had stolen her heart.

Rebecca held Elara's gaze steadily, letting the weight of her suggestive words linger. A look of intrigued appraisal stole across her handmaiden's features as she regarded Rebecca with new eyes. There was a considering quality to her stare, an inkling of respect, even admiration at how boldly the princess had met her provocative teasing.

The heavy silence stretched taut between them, thrumming with a sudden undercurrent of tension, of possibility. Slowly, Elara's lips curved into a sly smile.

"Well now," she quipped, regaining her composure as she held Rebecca's smoldering stare. "It seems this mysterious lover of yours has awoken something utterly delicious in you, Princess."

A teasing lilt entered Elara's tone, though there was an unmistakable edge underlying her words. "I must say, I approve...and I find myself distinctly intrigued to see what other surprises you may have in store."

A pleased, almost cocky grin tugged at the corner of Rebecca's mouth. "I'll have to keep that in mind."

The princess allowed a beat of silence, letting her words settle, and then their eyes met. For a moment, the weight of the unspoken suggestion hung heavy between them, challenging them to break first.

The corners of Rebecca's mouth twitched with the effort of suppressing her amusement. Elara seemed to be faring no better - her lips were pressed tightly together, but Rebecca could see the laughter sparkling in her eyes.

It was Elara who faltered first with an undignified snort of laughter that she immediately tried to smother behind her hand. The sound was like the breaking of a dam, and suddenly they both dissolved into laughter, any pretense at heated seduction forgotten.

Rebecca doubled over, clutching her sides as pearls of laughter robbed her of breath. Tears gathered in the corners of her eyes from the hilarity of the entire exchange. Across from her, Elara was in a similar state, bent nearly in half with one hand braced against the wall for support.

"Oh...oh my," Rebecca gasped out between giggles, waving a hand feebly. "I can't...I simply cannot with you!"

"You started it!" Elara shot back, wiping tears from her eyes. "Throwing me those seductive looks, making such wicked promises..."

That set them off again, their laughter echoing through the chamber. When the laughter finally began to taper off, they exchanged sheepish smiles, as if just realizing the absurdity of their antics.

Rebecca fixed Elara with a look of fond exasperation. "You are a thoroughly indecent influence, Elara," she chided without any real rebuke. "Whatever am I to do with you?"

Elara grinned unrepentantly. "Keep me around to scandalously corrupt you further?" she suggested with an impish quirk of her brow.

Shaking her head ruefully, Rebecca could only laugh again as a fresh wave of giggles bubbled up. "I.. wouldn't want that. But I would never not want you, Elara," she conceded simply, unable to deny how light and carefree she felt in this moment.

A warm smile curved her lips as she regarded her handmaiden. For so long, Elara had been her sole friend, supporting her through difficult times with steadfast loyalty. She was in a way like her friend, sometimes her mother, and other times an advisor.

Elara gave her hand an affectionate squeeze before standing up. "Well then," she said briskly, though her eyes remained warm. "We'll save your indecent corruption for another day. Now, I'm sure that the two of us had spent too much time fooling around and I should start getting you ready for your morning duties."

Turning towards the gowns she had laid out earlier, Elara gestured for Rebecca to choose. "Now, which gown shall we dress you in today? Something to make that mysterious lover of yours quite weak in the knees or something more modest to make her think you are hard to get?"

Rebecca laughed lightly, moving to join Elara and eyeing the different options. "Something elegant yet alluring," she decided after a moment's consideration. Reaching out, her fingers traced the rich fabric of a deep crimson gown. "This one, I think. The color is quite striking."

"Very well," Elara agreed, nodding her approval. "Shall we?" She moved to the center of the room, turning so that Elara could unrobe and help her slip out of it. The princess shivered lightly, the cool morning air raising goosebumps across her exposed skin. With deft hands, her handmaiden slipped the gown over Rebecca's head, tugging it down into place. Rebecca let the silky fabric settle around her, adjusting the sleeves to fit comfortably.

As she adjusted the material, Elara adjusted the bodice, smoothed the folds of the skirts, and tied the laces on the back. It was a ritual of theirs, a sort of silent dance in which Rebecca stood still as her handmaiden dressed her.

Once the princess was dressed, Elara turned her attention to Rebecca's hair. Rather than pulling it into an updo style, she decided to leave it cascading freely down Rebecca's back in waves. Elara gently combed through the long tresses, loosening any tangles and adding just a touch of product to enhance the shine. She tried to create an effortlessly tousled look and the result was breathtaking.

"There," Elara murmured in satisfaction. Catching Rebecca's gaze in the mirror, she gave her impish grin. "Refined enough for royal court but with a whisper of disarray. Your lover won't be able to take her eyes off you."

Rebecca felt her cheeks warm with pleasure at the prospect, suddenly unable to wait to meet Freen. Smoothing her hands over the folds of her dress, she gave herself a final look over in the mirror. The gown fit her like a glove, the bodice accentuating her curves and the skirt falling in waves to the floor. She felt both powerful and alluring in it, a perfect combination for turning a few heads at court today.

"Then I suppose I shouldn't keep her waiting any longer," she murmured, holding Elara's knowing stare.

Her handmaiden simply laughed. "Far be it from me to come between a woman and the object of her passionate desires." Offering Rebecca an exaggerated curtsy, Elara winked openly. "Best be on your way, Your Highness."

The library was one of the few places in the castle where Rebecca often found herself to escape from the demands of her royal duties. The soft glow of the chandeliers illuminated rows upon rows of books, creating a warm, secluded atmosphere. The towering shelves were lined with countless books, each one a gateway to different worlds and stories waiting to be explored. It was a place of quiet reflection, where the hushed whispers of knowledge held a soothing comfort.

Rebecca found herself in one of the private reading nooks, just as she said she would to Elara. A pot of tea and a plate of rose shortbread was beside her on the small table as she settled into the armchair, letting out a contented sigh as she picked up the book she had been attempting to finish.

The quiet alcove, tucked away from the main library, was exactly what she needed. The hushed sounds of the library soon faded away as she became utterly entranced by the story. Her fingertips occasionally flipped the rough paper's edge. Her lips parting ever so slightly as she hung on every word, breath hitching at unexpected plot twists. She was worlds away from the present, getting lost in the story in front of her and nothing would be able to distract her.

Unbeknownst to her, Freen had just walked into the library, her steps light against the polished marble floor. She hadn't laid eyes on Rebecca since the intimate hours they had stolen together the previous night. Her body still hummed with the memory of Rebecca's soft sighs and whimpers as she trailed kisses along the column of her throat, teeth grazing sensitive skin. The ghost of Rebecca's nails raking down her back in ecstasy made Freen shiver, skin flushing hot at the recollection.

Freen could still vividly remember how Rebecca had looked, brown eyes hooded with lust, swollen lips parted in breathless pants as she kissed and nipped a path down her body. The way Rebecca arched into her touch, whimpering her name like she wanted more. Freen felt her own desire coiling low in her abdomen at the memories.

Knowing Rebecca would be preoccupied with festival preparations today, Freen didn't expect to cross paths with her lover until evening fell. A part of her was relieved - after the newfound intimacy they had discovered, Freen wasn't sure she could bear to see Rebecca putting on courtly airs with the other suitors. Not when Freen's fingers could still recall the warmth of the marks she had left blossoming across Rebecca's chest.

So instead of subjecting herself to that particular torment, she had decided to seek refuge in the stacks of books at the castle's library that her Rebecca loved so much. Wandering inside the library, she hoped to find a book that would properly divert her attention from the princess who threatened to consume her thoughts.

As she walked in between the aisles, a hint of familiarity in the air caught her attention - the faint floral notes of roses she'd know anywhere. Her lips curved into a soft smile as she followed the scent.

There in one of the private reading nooks sat Rebecca, utterly entranced by the book in her hands, completely unaware of her presence or the world around her. But it wasn't Rebecca's engrossed expression or the way she absentmindedly tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear that immediately enraptured Freen. No, it was the utterly bewitching sight of her in that intimate alcove that caught her attention.

She felt the air leave her lungs in a heated rush as she drank in the sight before her. Rebecca sat with one leg crossed over the other, her gown parted to reveal a distracting glimpse of smoothe, pale leg. She couldn't help but take in the site. Her heart raced as she took in the way Rebecca's head was tilted ever so slightly to the side, loose tendrils of hair framing her face falling in tousled waves onto her shoulders.

Freen's gaze traced lower, feeling her mouth go dry at the way Rebecca's gown skimmed so enticingly across the swell of her breasts. The rich crimson silk clinging to her curves, practically begging to be slowly peeled away and discarded.

As if that enticing glimpse wasn't enough to set her heart hammering, there in the dip of that exposed decolletage was the faintest reddish-purple mark. Unmistakable evidence of the night they had shared, no doubt Rebecca had tried to cover but the concealer had slowly faded throughout the day without her realizing. That teasing glimpse of the proof of their passion last night was too much for Freen and she had to look away.

She swiftly averted her eyes, trying to regain her composure. But letting her gaze drift back up to Rebecca's face may have been an even bigger mistake. Rebecca was chewing her full lower lip absentmindedly, seemingly unaware of how seductive the subtle gesture was. In that moment, Freen was painfully reminded of how Rebecca's lips had felt pressed hungrily against her own mere hours before. She swallowed hard, feeling her control rapidly fraying as desire threatened to overwhelm her senses. To Freen, she was the most beautiful sight in the entire library.

Without thinking, Freen found herself walking closer. "Rebecca," she called out softly, unable to resist the temptation to draw herself into Rebecca's sphere.

Receiving no response, the heated haze of longing began to fade somewhat. Of course Rebecca was lost by whatever story had caught her attention and hadn't heard her. She could have set the entire library on fire, and she doubted it would have registered to her thoroughly entranced lover.

A fond smile tugged at Freen's lips as she watched Rebecca's lips silently forming the words, that adorable crease appearing between her brows.

"Rebecca?" Freen tried again, a bit louder this time as she slowly closed the distance between them. "My love? My dearest?"

Still no acknowledgement from Rebecca, whose fingers had begun unconsciously toying with a loose lock of hair. Freen drank in every tiny nuance, every shift in expression as Rebecca remained completely engrossed in her reading.

"Darling? Beautiful?" Freen couldn't help but let out a slightly amused huff as a slew of pet names fell from her lips to no avail.

Well, if Rebecca wasn't going to grant Freen her attention she very much needed, she's just going to have to surprise the princess. With light steps, she closed the remaining distance between them and she soon found herself standing just behind Rebecca.

So close now, Freen could make out the fluttering of Rebecca's lashes and the soft exhales escaping her parted lips. She had to bite back a quiet giggle at the thought of Rebecca's reaction when she would finally notice her.

Unable to resist any longer, Freen leaned in until her lips were almost brushing against Rebecca's ear. With a grin, she exhaled a tormentingly warm breath before finally breaking the silence in a teasing whisper.

"Rebecca," she whispered, purposely allowing her lips to ghost along the sensitive curve of Rebecca's ear. "Are you enjoying your book?"

Freen couldn't stifle her giggle as Rebecca startled violently in her seat, the book tumbling from her hands as she whipped her head around. Seeing that it was Freen, she finally registered the citrus scent. Her pupils blew wide as the pheromones set her senses alight and her eyes that were wide with surprise quickly changed into an expression of flustered indignation.

Rebecca's jaw slackened slightly as she drank in how close Freen truly was - their faces just inches apart. She could make out the tiniest flecks of gold in the warm green eyes, that mischievous glint still dancing. Just as her smile was about to widen, Freen bumped her nose against hers.

Rebecca laughed, a quiet giggle that echoed softly in the private nook, filling the space between them. "Well, that's one way to get my attention," she managed to reply in a hushed whisper.

Freen's lips curved into a playful smile, her eyes dancing with mirth. "I figured a book wasn't as interesting as my presence," she replied haughtily, pretending to be arrogant.

"You certainly are more interesting," Rebecca easily admitted, feeling her cheeks warm.

Freen gently tilted her head, bringing her lips back closer to her ear, and she whispered softly, "Perhaps I should bring you more surprises."

A delightful shiver raced down Rebecca's spine at the warm caress of Freen's breath along her ear. She bit back a small whimper, suddenly very aware of how intimate and private their secluded little reading nook truly was.

"I would certainly welcome them..." she said softly with an unmistakable yearning in her tone.

Freen couldn't resist pressing a kiss on Rebecca's temple before leaning back slightly, giving Rebecca space to finally fully meet her gaze. Offering her an apologetic smile, Freen said softly, "I didn't mean to interrupt your reading."

Rebecca's eyes searched Freen's face, a small smile playing on her lips as she turned to fully face her. "You really didn't interrupt me." She reached out and trailed her fingertips along Freen's jawline. "In fact, I'm happy you found me."

Freen raised an eyebrow playfully, silently challenging Rebecca's response, though her eyes still twinkled with affection. "Are you sure about that? You seemed quite entranced by that book."

Rebecca laughed, her expression turning bashful. She couldn't help but admire the way Freen could brighten the mood at any moment. "Okay, you might have a point there," she conceded. "But I can always make time for you, no matter how much I love to read."

Freen's playful demeanor melted away as she felt her heart skip a beat. She looped her arms around Rebecca from behind, unable to resist the need to feel closer to her. Nuzzling her face into the warm crook of Rebecca's neck, she breathed in the soft, familiar scent.

Rebecca sighed contentedly, her body melting into Freen's touch. Tilting her head to the side, she exposed more of her neck, the throbbing pulse there quickening in anticipation as she silently beckoned Freen's affections.

Freen couldn't help but place a kiss just below Rebecca's ear, smiling against her neck at the shiver it elicited. Feeling bolder, she grazed her teeth ever so lightly along the sensitive skin.

"Freen..." Rebecca's breathy warning came out... It sounded more like a pleased sigh than a true reprimand, if she had to be honest. But taking the hint, Freen soothed the spot with a sweep of her tongue before placing a kiss over the area.

She nuzzled her face back into the crook of Rebecca's neck, breathing in her sweet scent and ever so often giving soft kisses on her gland. They stayed that way for a moment, enjoying each other's attention, but Freen eventually got tired of leaning down.

Pulling back slightly, her gaze dropped to Rebecca's lips. She traced the lips with hooded eyes before flickering her eyes up to meet Rebecca's. The heated look they shared said it all. Freen slowly leaned in, giving Rebecca a chance to pull away, but Rebecca stayed still, her eyes fluttering closed in anticipation.

Freen claimed Rebecca's lips in a firm but brief kiss that left them both wanting more. Their lips pressed together urgently, tongues slipping into mouths and teeth clashing, the need to get closer, taste more overwhelming them. Rebecca whimpered softly when their lips parted, a flush spreading across her cheeks. Freen took a moment to admire the sight, her own heart pounding wildly in her chest.

Though the kiss was over far too quick, it was enough to quell her desires for now. She brushed her fingers across the blush, grinning impishly.

"Your ears are pink," Freen teased.

Rebecca's cheeks grew even redder, and Freen couldn't help herself from pressing a kiss on one of them. Rebecca whined quietly, burying her face into her hands, embarrassed. Freen let out a little laugh, her eyes crinkling at the corners. She waited patiently for Rebecca to recover, planting a kiss on her bent shoulder.

Rebecca slowly peaked out from behind her hands, shooting Freen a half-hearted glare from under her lashes. "You're terrible, you know that?" she huffed, hating being teased yet again.

"Mmhmm, and yet you love me anyway," Freen grinned, leaning in to nuzzle her nose against Rebecca's affectionately.

Rebecca's eyes drifted shut at the gesture, a contented sigh escaping her. "Unfortunately, you're not wrong about that." Her lips quirked up into a soft smile and she shook her head slightly. "Though I do question my judgment sometimes..."

Straightening up from where she had been leaning over the armchair, Freen gazed down at Rebecca with unmistakable fondness. "Well, I can't have you think that!" She reached out to cup Rebecca's cheeks and leaned down for a quick kiss. "Allow me to remind you why your judgment is perfectly sound."

"I'll start with how beautiful you look flushed and rumpled like this, just from a few kisses." Her thumb skimmed lightly across Rebecca's swollen lower lip. "Those pretty lips, all red and wanting...it's a sight I'll never grow tired of."

She dipped her head, her warm breath fanning across Rebecca's skin as she murmured against the sensitive spot below her ear. "And need I remind you of the delicious sounds you make when I pay proper attention here?"

Punctuating her words with a nip, Freen grinned wickedly at the full-body shiver it elicited from Rebecca. "Should I continue listing the reasons, love?" Freen's voice was low and sultry, her eyes sparkling as if she knew that she had already won. She trailed a finger along Rebecca's jawline before gently tilting her chin up. "Or would you prefer I simply show you instead?"

Freen leaned in achingly slow, her lips a hairbreadth away. Rebecca's eyes fluttered shut again, anticipating Freen's kiss. But instead of closing the distance, Freen hovered there, letting the tension build. When Rebecca finally realized the kiss wasn't coming, her eyes blinked open in confusion.

Freen was gazing down at her with a teasing smile playing on her lips. "You seem a bit...distracted. Is this private little nook not enough to hold your attention anymore?" She traced a fingertip along the armrest. "Perhaps you'd be more comfortable if I joined you?"

Rebecca's cheeks instantly burned at the implication. "I-Freen!" she stammered, flustered by her boldness. Tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear, she averted her eyes shyly. "Must you always tease me so?"

Freen just chuckled, entirely endeared by Rebecca's adorable embarrassment. "And miss out on seeing that pretty blush?" She brushed the pad of her thumb over the heated skin of Rebecca's cheek. "Never."

Without waiting for a response, Freen gracefully lowered herself onto the armchair, pressing close against Rebecca's side. She nuzzled her nose along Rebecca's jaw before murmuring in her ear, "There, isn't this better?"

Rebecca bit her lip, trying not to shiver at Freen's proximity. This woman would surely be the death of her...

Rebecca let out a small exasperated huff. She wasn't used to being so easily flustered and put on the back foot like this. As the Alpha everyone perceived her to be, she commanded attention and respect whether with her counsel members or at royal balls. No one dared to tease or attempt to fluster her... except for Elara that is. And now, for the last two weeks, Freen's presence seemed to unravel her in ways Rebecca hadn't quite grown accustomed to yet.

"You always seem to get the better of me," Rebecca whined softly, letting her emotions out. But Freen just hummed and closed her eyes. They shared a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's presence before Freen turned her head slightly to glance at the book in Rebecca's hands. "So, what's the book that had you so captivated earlier?" Freen asked, her voice soft and curious.

Rebecca glanced down at the book in her lap, running her fingertips lightly over the edge of the book. "I'm not sure if you'll like it... It's a story that I've read a dozen times before," she replied, a fond smile playing on her lips. "But I can never resist getting swept away in the adventures all over again. The main character is on an adventure to find out about his parents who he hasn't met before. He doesn't know if they are alive or not, but he found their journal that was for him when he got older. So now he's on a journey to uncover the secrets they left behind and to discover his own identity in the process."

Freen's brows furrowed slightly as she listened to Rebecca, her curiosity piqued by the intriguing plot. "That sounds rather fascinating. It sounds like a story that keeps you guessing until the very end."

"Mmmm yes, quite so. That's what drew me into this story... Don't you ever wonder what it might be like to shed all expectations and simply strike out to find yourself?" Rebecca's voice trailed off wistfully as she pondered the idea. Freen straightened up from where she was nestled against Rebecca's side and studied her expression for a moment before replying.

"I must admit, the thought hadn't crossed my mind before," Freen said slowly. "I've always done things as I please as my parents were very understanding and supportive of me."

She gave Rebecca an affectionate smile. "While they certainly instilled certain core values, Mother and Father were never the sort of typical royals to rigidly map out our paths. They wanted us to find our own paths freely."

Freen's expression took on a wistful fondness as she recalled her childhood. "I had the luxury of being able to explore my wide-ranging interests and whims without restraint. Whether riding horses from dawn till dusk or tucking myself away to read, I was simply encouraged to follow my heart. I suspect that freedom and trust afforded to me is why the notion of shedding expectations never really arose. My path was my own to create from the start."

Reaching over, gently took the book from Rebecca's hand, and setted it aside. She then took both of Rebecca's hands in her own. "I know how incredibly fortunate I've been in that regard. For you, and many others in our circles, your life's path has always seemed so clearly laid out before you. Expectations and duty must have been weighing on your shoulders from a very young age."

"While the thrill of embarking on a grand adventure to discover oneself sounds terribly romantic, the truth is - that journey can take many forms." Lifting one of Rebecca's hands, she brushed a kiss against her knuckles. "Sometimes, the bravest quest of all is simply allowing yourself to let go of others' expectations, even if just for moments at a time. The greatest journey any of us can take is the one within ourselves - peeling back the layers, questioning our beliefs, challenging our assumptions. It's not about running away, but about being present and looking inward with brave honesty."

"You make it sound so effortless," Rebecca murmured, equal parts awed and uncertain. "Like all I need to do is let go of a lifetime's worth of what I know." She managed a rueful smile. "Perhaps for someone like you, who was nurtured with such freedom, it comes more naturally. But for me..." Her voice trailed off as she searched for the right words.

"My entire existence has been defined by duty, obligation, the weight of my position." Rebecca said finally. "From the moment I could comprehend it, I understood my role. There was little room for self-discovery or following my heart's whims."

She squeezed Freen's hands tightly, drawing strength from her presence. "Don't mistake me, I don't resent my role or begrudge the path set before me. Leading and protecting my people is the greatest honor I could have. But..."

Rebecca's brow furrowed slightly as she wrestled with her thoughts. "There have been times when I've wondered what it would be like to simply be Rebecca. Not the Princess, not the heir to the throne. Just...me. With no expectations other than the ones I set for myself."

She looked up at Freen, her eyes full of tenderness. "When I'm with you, I get brief glimpses of what that might feel like. You have an inexplicable way of allowing me to shed pieces of the burden I constantly carry, even if momentarily. Like for these fleeting moments, I can simply exist as myself, without the crushing obligations and duties constantly weighing me down."

A soft, sad smile spread across Freen's face as she listened. Without a word, she shifted closer and wrapped her arms around Rebecca's waist, pulling her into a hug. Holding Rebecca tight, Freen rested her cheek against the top of her head. She knew that no words she could say would help ease the burden Rebecca had shouldered for so long. But she hopes that her presence alone would be enough to support Rebecca, at least a little, and allow her to simply be free, without the weight of her title.

Freen hummed in response, letting a comfortable silence lapse between them. A moment passed before Freen's attention shifted and she found her gaze back on Rebecca's lips. A playful smirk tugged at the corners of her mouth as she leaned in, capturing Rebecca's lips with her own.

When they finally broke apart, Freen pulled back just enough to nuzzle her nose against Rebecca's affectionately. "I do so enjoy our deep conversations," she began wryly, "But I find my thoughts wandering down a rather diverting path at present."

She trailed her fingers along Rebecca's arm in a light caress. "Unless you had your heart set on spending the afternoon reading?"

Rebecca couldn't help but blush under Freen's intent gaze, knowing full well where her thoughts had drifted. Feeling flustered, she worried her lower lip between her teeth, an unconscious nervous habit.

Freen's eyes zeroed in on the action, her pupils dilating as she watched Rebecca's teeth drag across her lips. Rebecca felt a shiver of heat course through her at the undisguised want in Freen's stare.

Freen's lips curved upwards, a slow smile spreading across her face as her eyes continued to linger. "Rebecca," she breathed, her voice low. "May I kiss you again?"

Rebecca could barely hear her over the blood rushing in her ears, her body thrumming with an answering desire. Still, she didn't want to seem too eager and give in without a fight. "I don't know," she started, a hesitant teasing note in her voice. "You did interrupt me earlier. Maybe you should try to earn it."

Freen's eyebrows arched and she regarded Rebecca with a look of challenge. "Oh really?" She drawled, amusement dancing in her eyes.

Rebecca bit back a smile and gave a slight nod, her eyes locked on Freen's.

A smirk crept across Freen's lips and she leaned forward, her nose grazing Rebecca's. "Is that so?" She murmured. "And how should I go about earning a kiss from you?"

Rebecca couldn't contain the shiver of excitement that ran through her at the sound of Freen's husky voice, a pleasant tingling sensation spreading over her. "Well, perhaps you can start with telling me how much you want to kiss me."

A sultry smile spread across Freen's lips and her eyes grew heavy-lidded. "Oh? But it would be easier to show you, wouldn't it?"

Before Rebecca could respond, Freen's mouth was on hers, capturing her in a deep, sensual kiss.

Rebecca let out a muffled squeak of surprise, but quickly found herself melting into the kiss, her earlier hesitance forgotten. She wrapped her arms around Freen's neck, pulling her closer as she deepened the kiss.

Freen let out a low moan, eagerly accepting Rebecca's silent request. Her hands tangled in Rebecca's hair, angling her head to better ravage her mouth with heated passion.

Rebecca clung to Freen desperately, returning the bruising kiss, savoring the intoxicating taste and feel of Freen's lips against her own. She couldn't hold back the whimper that escaped her, a shiver of pleasure racing through her at the intensity of the kiss.

Freen smirked against her lips, her tongue flicking across her bottom lip, demanding entrance. When Rebecca's lips parted, she slipped her tongue inside, tasting and exploring every inch of her mouth.

Rebecca's breath hitched as her own tongue met Freen's. A small moan escaped her, the kiss quickly becoming even more passionate. She could feel her pulse quicken and her breathing becoming ragged as their tongues met.

It wasn't long before they had to part, both gasping for air. As their breaths mingled, Freen rested her forehead against Rebecca's.

"Wow..." Rebecca breathed, her eyes still shut.

Freen chuckled, the low rumble reverberating throughout Rebecca's entire being. "Just 'wow'? That's it?" She teased, her voice low and husky.

Rebecca swallowed thickly, unable to find the right words to describe the emotions surging through her. She finally opened her eyes and was greeted by the desire burning in Freen's gaze.

"Was that enough for a kiss?" Freen purred, her voice sending a jolt of electricity through Rebecca's body.

"... More than enough," Rebecca managed to say, her voice sounding distant even to her own ears.

"Good," Freen whispered, her eyes flashing with mischief. "Because I want more."

With that, she claimed Rebecca's lips once again, her kiss even hungrier than the first.

Rebecca's eyelids fluttered closed as she surrendered herself completely to the passion of the moment. Freen's lips were hot against hers, her tongue tracing along her bottom lip.

As Freen's tongue explored her mouth, she could taste the sweet and tart flavors of the fruits she had eaten earlier. She groaned, her fingers tightening their hold on Freen's waist.

Freen smiled into the kiss, loving the way Rebecca clung to her with desperation, her fingers digging into her waist almost to the point of pain from how tightly she held on. She sucked on Rebecca's bottom lip, nipping at it before releasing it with a pop.

The sharp sting caused a gasp to escape Rebecca's lips, her eyes snapping open. She gazed up at Freen, her cheeks flushed and her breathing heavy.

Freen stared down at her with an intensity that sent a thrill through her. "Don't move," she ordered, her voice low and husky. "I'm going to get more comfortable."

She pulled back, shifting her position and sliding her legs on either side of Rebecca. She placed her hands on the armrests of the chair, caging Rebecca in, her face mere inches away.

Rebecca couldn't tear her eyes away from Freen, her breath catching in her throat as Freen hovered over her, straddling her lap. A jolt of desire shot through her, quickly followed by a flush of embarrassment as she remembered their very public location in the castle library's private reading nook.

"Freen...what are you doing?" she whispered, equal parts thrilled and mortified by the bold actions.

Her gaze flickered almost involuntarily towards the nook's entryway, panicked they may be seen in such a compromising position.

But Freen seemed utterly unconcerned, her heavy-lidded eyes dark with want as she drank in the sight of her flustered lover. "Getting comfortable, like I said," she murmured, voice dripping with suggestion. Leaning in until their noses brushed, she brought her lips achingly close to Rebecca's ear. "Unless you'd prefer I stopped?"

A shuddering breath escaped Rebecca at the heated whisper, every rational thought fleeing her mind. Before she could react further, Freen's mouth found that sensitive spot below her ear, scattering hot, open-mouthed kisses along her racing pulse.

As she ghosted over the spot, Rebecca inhaled sharply, her body tensing. "N-No..." Rebecca managed breathlessly, all hesitations evaporating under Freen's attention. Consequences be damned - she could never resist the dizzying spell this woman wove over her senses.

Freen hummed approval against her skin, the touch of her lips making Rebecca shiver. "Good girl..." One hand slid up to fist in Rebecca's hair, tugging it hard enough to arch her neck further, exposing more of her throat to Freen's hungry mouth. She nipped at the soft skin there, feeling Rebecca's breath hitch in response.

Rebecca's fingers dug into the armrests, hanging on for dear life as Freen's scorching caresses robbed her of all higher cognition. If anyone stumbled upon them now, there would be no explaining away their indecent position and Rebecca's rapidly disheveled state.

"You're so sensitive," Freen whispered, her lips brushing against the skin.

"Hnnnngggg," Rebecca moaned, her chest rising and falling with each shaky breath.

Freen kissed her neck again, her tongue darting out to taste the salt on her skin. Rebecca let out another breathy moan, her head falling back against the chair as she arched her back further into Freen's touch. The sensation of being so exposed, so vulnerable, only served to heighten her arousal. She felt like she could barely contain the need building inside her, the ache between her legs growing more insistent with each passing moment.

As Freen continued to lavish attention on her neck, Rebecca's mind began to spin with desire. She wanted more, needed more of this incredible woman. She reached up, her fingers tangling in the softness of Freen's hair, pulling her lover's lips back down to hers. Their kiss was urgent, desperate, as if they were both drowning and this was their only lifeline.

Freen moaned into the kiss, her body pressing tighter against Rebecca's. She could feel the heat emanating from her lover, and it only served to fuel the fire inside her. With a sharp yank, Freen pulled Rebecca's head back, pulling their mouths away.

In shock, Rebecca's eyes widen, her lips part in a silent gasp of pain. It's sharp and immediate, like a slap across her cheek, and for a moment she can't even breathe.

Freen's eyes are dark, a dangerous mix of pleasure and control as she watches the expression on Rebecca's face. "Did I go too far?" she whispers.

Rebecca shakes her head slowly, her breath coming in ragged gasps as the pain begins to subside, leaving a hot, throbbing ache behind. She blinked back tears, more from the intensity of the moment than the pain itself. She shakes her head, swallowing hard past the lump in her throat. "N-no," she manages, her voice barely audible. "It's...it's fine."

Freen's fingers gently massaged Rebecca's scalp where she had pulled her hair, soothing the sensitive skin. Unsure of how much more Rebecca can handle, Freen hesitates for a moment before leaning forward again, her breath warm against Rebecca's ear. With a gentle tug, she pulled her hair once more, this time eliciting a sharp gasp from Rebecca. The sound is both pained and needy, and it pushes Freen further. She licked her lips and tugged on Rebecca's hair again. "You're so beautiful," she gasped, her voice ragged with desire. "You make me want more."

Freen yanked her hair hard again and Rebecca whimpered as she felt Freen's fingers dig into her scalp, but the pain was quickly waned by the pleasure of being so desired.

Freen's breath came out in ragged gasps as she looked down at Rebecca, her chest heaving. She trailed a finger along Rebecca's lips before her hands slid down Rebecca's shoulders and around to cup her breasts, kneading them roughly through her dress. Rebecca arched her back, a cry of pleasure escaping her lips as Freen's thumbs brushed over her nipples.

The sensation was almost too much, the pleasure so intense it was painful. She felt like she was on the edge of something, teetering on the brink of ecstasy, and she knew that Freen was the only one who could make her feel this way.

Freen's fingers danced over her breasts, teasing and tormenting, and with each touch, Rebecca felt herself growing more and more aroused. She arched her back, pressing her breasts harder against Freen's hands as she moaned in pleasure.

As Freen continued to play with her breasts, she moved lower, kissing and nipping at Rebecca's collarbone. Rebecca threw her head back, her eyes closed tightly, lost in the sensation of Freen's lips and teeth on her skin. She felt Freen's other hand slide down, teasing at the hem of her dress before slipping inside, finding the bare skin of her leg.

Rebecca couldn't help but tense up, feeling herself quiver beneath Freen's touch. Despite the undeniable arousal coursing through her veins, she wasn't sure what to make of herself at the thought of Freen's hand traveling further up, under her dress. She had never been with anyone before, and while the thought of it excited her, she wasn't sure how she felt about doing such an intimate act in the library.

Sensing Rebecca's sudden hesitation, she slowed down, and rested her hand gently on Rebecca's thigh. She kissed her way higher, up to Rebecca's earlobe, nipping at it gently before whispering, "Is this ok?.... Did I - did I push too far?"

Rebecca's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she forced herself to meet Freen's gaze. "No, it's not...it's not you," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just...we're still in the library, even if it's a private nook. What if someone sees us?"

Freen's lips curled into a small, understanding smile. She smiled reassuringly and leaned in closer, her lips brushing against Rebecca's ear. "They won't," she assured Rebecca, her breath warm against Rebecca's skin. "I promise I'll make sure no one will know... And if they do, we'll just have to be extra quiet, won't we."

"Just... trust me," Freen whispered, her voice low and sultry. She hesitated for a moment before adding, "And I can't help but feel that if you really wanted me to stop, you would have told me already."

Rebecca's heart raced as she considered this, her body betraying her with a shiver of desire. She wanted to trust Freen, to give herself over, but the fear of getting caught still lingered in the back of her mind. Slowly, carefully, she nodded, her breath hitching as she did so.

Freen smiled, her eyes glowing with understanding and lust. She leaned forward, her lips pressing against Rebecca's neck, before trailing them lower, towards her collarbone. Her hand slid higher up Rebecca's thigh, inching closer to the edge of her underwear. Rebecca's breath caught in her throat as Freen's fingers brushed against her center over her underwear, causing her to buck her hips unconsciously.

The touch was electric, sending waves of pleasure through her body. She arched her back, pressing herself closer to Freen's touch, moaning softly as the sensation intensified. The feel of Freen's lips and teeth on her skin, the teasing of her fingers, it was all driving her wild. She trusted Freen, trusted that she knew what she was doing, and it felt so good to let go and surrender to these feelings.

As Freen's hand continued to tease at her center, Rebecca's breath came faster and faster. She bit her lip, trying to stifle her cries, but they escaped her nonetheless. She felt so close, so on the edge of something incredible, and she wanted nothing more than to give in to it. She clung to Freen, unsure of what to expect but wanting more of this incredible feeling.

And then she gasped as Freen's fingers slid further and slipped past her undergarments, parting the folds between her legs. Her hips bucked again involuntarily into Freen's touch, a moan escaping her lips.

"God, you're so responsive," she breathed, as she felt the wet heat of Rebecca's arousal. Freen kissed and nipped at her neck, trailing her tongue along Rebecca's skin as her fingers continued to tease and explore. She parted Rebecca's folds further, revealing her tight, swollen clit. She circled it gently, eliciting a sharp gasp from Rebecca.

She pressed her fingers harder against Rebecca's clit, feeling it twitch beneath her touch.

Rebecca brought her hands to her mouth to muffle the sounds she couldn't contain as her hips bucked and twisted, seeking more friction.

"That's it, love," Freen whispered, her voice thick with desire. "Let go. Give in to it." She increased the pressure on Rebecca's clit, circling it faster and faster, her fingers slick with her arousal.

Rebecca's body tensed, her muscles clenching as the sensations built. She arched her back, her head thrown back against the armchair, her eyes squeezed shut, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Freen's touch was unbearably intense, and a little painful, but it was also the most incredible thing she'd ever felt. She felt like she was floating, suspended in a sea of pleasure, and she didn't want it to end.

As her orgasm approached, the sensations became too much to bear. She let out a muffled cry, her body shuddering with the force of her release. Her hips bucked wildly, grinding against Freen's hand, as wave after wave of pleasure washed over her. She felt like she was coming apart at the seams, her body surrendering completely to the sensation.

Freen held her tightly, her fingers never ceasing their movement, even as Rebecca's body trembled and convulsed. She kissed Rebecca's neck, her shoulder, her collarbone, her lips, as she felt the woman's body finally begin to calm.

"That's it," she whispered, her voice still thick with desire. "Let it all out. Feel it. Let it flow through you." She moved her fingers slightly, pressing them against Rebecca's clit more gently now, still circling, still teasing.

Rebecca groaned, feeling the teasing of Freen's fingers too much, too painful.

"Too much," she gasped, trying to pull away. "It's too much." But Freen held her firmly, her fingers relentless.

"Shh," Freen soothed, pressing another kiss to Rebecca's lips. "Give it a moment." Her fingers continued their gentle teasing, circling Rebecca's swollen clit, teasing the bundle of nerves beneath.

When Rebecca didn't make a move to stop them, she slipped a finger inside her, curling it up to tease her most sensitive spot. Rebecca cried out, her hips bucking helplessly against Freen's touch. She arched her back, feeling as if her insides were being pulled apart, her body on the verge of shattering from the intensity of the pleasure.

With a rough groan, Freen slowly thrust forward feeling the heat and wetness of Rebecca's arousal surrounding her fingers. Her fingers moved in and out of her, finding a rhythm that had Rebecca moaning and writhing beneath her touch. She leaned forward, capturing Rebecca's lips to muffle the sounds as she continued to fuck her with her hand.

Rebecca felt as if she were on the edge of a precipice, teetering between pleasure and pain. It was all too much but not at the same time. She was having a hard time controlling her pheromones from being released. It made her feel weak, her body giving in to the sensations.

Desperately trying to control her pheromones, Rebecca bites down on her tongue as hard as she can, tasting blood and feeling a sharp pain in her mouth. Her body trembles as she struggles to maintain composure while Freen continues to pleasure her. She clung to Freen, her nails digging into her shoulders as she arched her back, her hips meeting each thrust of Freen's hand.

Freen felt her own arousal growing, the knowledge that she was pleasuring Rebecca in this way driving her wild. She increased the pace of her thrusts, lost in the feel of Rebecca's body moving against her, the sounds of their breath and the rustle of clothes.

As Freen thrust deeper inside her, Rebecca felt a wave of release building, threatening to overwhelm her. She gripped Freen's shoulders tightly, arching her back, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Her hips moved in time with Freen's thrusts, urging her on, demanding more.

Freen felt the tension building in Rebecca's body, her muscles tensing and her breath coming faster. She increased the pace of her thrusts, her fingers digging deeper, finding that sweet spot that had Rebecca moaning and writhing beneath her touch.

With a final thrust, Freen's fingers curled firmly around Rebecca's clit, feeling the small muscle contract powerfully in her grip. Rebecca cried out, her body arching violently as wave after wave of pleasure crashed over her. Her hips bucked helplessly against Freen's hand, her nails digging into her shoulders as she came with a force that left her gasping and trembling.

Freen held her close, feeling the warmth and wetness of Rebecca's release on her fingers. She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Rebecca's neck, breathing in her sweet rose scent. "Are you okay?" she whispered, her voice hoarse.

Rebecca lay panting beneath her, her body still trembling from the intensity of the orgasm. "Mmmm," she managed to say. "That was... I didn't expect that." She closed her eyes, feeling the afterglow of pleasure spread through her body.

They stayed like that for a moment, Freen stradling Rebecca and holding her, sharing the intimate space of the private reading nook. But as the haze of pleasure began to lift, Freen's attention was drawn to the entrance of the nook, a faint furrow appearing on her brow.

Sensing Freen's shift in focus, Rebecca followed her gaze, feeling a pang of anxiety flutter in her chest. She worried that perhaps they had been too loud, too indiscreet, and that someone might have stumbled upon them in their compromising position.

With a quick glance towards the entrance, Freen's expression softened into a relieved smile. "Looks like we're in the clear," she murmured, her voice laced with amusement.

Rebecca let out a sigh of relief, her body relaxing against Freen's as the tension melted away. "Thank goodness," she breathed, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I don't think I could handle the embarrassment of getting caught."

rene chuckled softly, her weight shifting as she leaned forward to press a kiss to Rebecca's forehead. "We're safe," she murmured, before leaning back again. She slid off Rebecca's lap, her legs briefly brushing against Rebecca's, before settling herself beside Rebecca on the armchair.

The two sat in silence for a moment, catching their breath and allowing their bodies to relax. Eventually, Freen reached over and gently took Rebecca's hand, giving it a squeeze. "That was quite the diversion from our reading," she said with a sly grin.

Rebecca felt her cheeks flush but she laughed lightly. "I certainly didn't anticipate the afternoon unfolding that way, but I can't say I'm disappointed."

"Nor I," Freen agreed, bringing Rebecca's hand to her lips to place a kiss on her knuckles. Her expression softened as she gazed at Rebecca with unabashed affection. "Though I think perhaps we should make ourselves a bit more presentable before we leave."

Rebecca's eyes went wide as she suddenly became acutely aware of her disheveled state. Her cheeks flushed crimson as she quickly tried to smooth down her skirts and tame her wild locks. "Oh goodness, you're right," she stammered, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her.

"Here, let me help," Freen murmured, amusement flickering across her features as she reached out to smooth down Rebecca's hair. Her touch was gentle, but there was an undeniable strength to it that sent a shiver down Rebecca's spine. She wondered if Freen was aware of the effect she had on her.

Freen's fingertips lingered, caressing Rebecca's flushed cheek with a tenderness that contrasted the rakish glint in her eye.

"You're lovely when you blush," Freen purred, delighting in how Rebecca's complexion darkened even further at her words. She leaned in until their lips were just a breath apart. "Though I must admit, I rather enjoy being the one to put that becoming color in your cheeks."

Rebecca's breath caught in her throat as Freen's thumb traced the curve of her lower lip. She found herself torn between wanting to maintain a veneer of propriety and the steadily building heat of desire that Freen's proximity kindled low in her belly.

Swallowing hard, Rebecca forced herself to break away from Freen's smoldering gaze. She straightened her shoulders, willing her voice not to waver as she responded. "While I appreciate your...appreciation, perhaps we could revisit this later when we're somewhere more private."

The words were prim and proper, but the way Rebecca's eyes shyly dropped to Freen's lips betrayed the undercurrent of longing behind them. Taking a steadying breath, she refocused on setting her appearance to rights, her nimble fingers working to smoothen out any wrinkles of her dress.