The doors to their chamber closed behind them with a quiet finality, sealing them in the dimly lit space that now belonged to them as husband and wife. The weight of expectation pressed against Caroline's chest and it got heavier with each step she took into the room.
The air was thick with the scent of rose petals and citrus fruit and lingering embers from the hearth but it did little to ease the knot of nerves in her stomach.
Casimir stood a few steps away, he gazed at her as he sank into the bed. His eyes not leaving hers as she slowly reached for the delicate clasps of her gown. The dress came undone and the silk pooled at her feet in a whisper of surrender yet she hesitated. The firelight illuminated her bare skin, leaving its golden trail along her shoulders, her collarbone and her breasts. He observed the rapid rise and fall of her chest.
