I placed a finger against his lips, silencing him. "Shh." I smiled again, this time softer, more genuine. "I didn’t mean anything by it, love. I know how hard you’re working for us, for me. And I’m grateful."
I watched him closely as my words wrapped around his guilt, squeezing it tighter. His shoulders sagged a little in relief, and I leaned back, giving him a reprieve from the suffocating tension. For now.
"Let’s not talk about Ravenna or any of that tonight," I continued, placing my hand on his chest. "Tonight is for us. The wedding’s almost here, and I want to make sure you’re still mine, Draven. Body and soul."
He swallowed hard, but I could see it—the uncertainty, the conflict. I could almost feel the weight of Ravenna’s presence looming over him like a shadow. But I would not let her win. Not tonight.
"I’m still yours, Zerra," he said quietly, his hand coming to rest on my thigh. But his touch felt wrong, empty. His fingers lacked the spark they once held, and it took everything in me to keep smiling.
I could sense the hesitation in him as he pulled me closer. His lips grazed mine, tentative, like a man lost between two worlds. I deepened the kiss, threading my fingers through his hair, willing him to forget Ravenna, even if just for this moment. Let him believe the facade I was creating, let him feel the pull of our bond once more.
He responded, but it felt forced, like he was going through the motions. His mind wasn’t here, not fully. But that was fine. I didn’t need him to be sincere. I just needed him to fall into the web I was weaving.
When I pulled back, I traced his jawline with my thumb. "I’ve missed you," I whispered, voice thick with false emotion. "We haven’t been like this in so long… I almost thought you didn’t want me anymore."
His eyes softened, a flicker of guilt crossing his features. "I do want you, Zerra. It’s just…"
"Just what?" I asked, tilting my head in mock curiosity, though I already knew the answer.
"I’ve… I’ve been distracted," he admitted. "Ravenna’s been… helping with some negotiations. It’s been a lot to handle."
Ravenna. Even just hearing her name stirred the anger simmering beneath my skin. But I kept my expression neutral, forcing a gentle laugh. "You don’t need to explain anything to me, Draven. I know how hard it’s been for you."