Aya's POV
We touched and caressed each other both passionately, and just to explore. The time just wasn't right to go further.
I awoke as he slept next to me, his arm resting carelessly across my waist. When I tried to move, he pulled my body up close against his, his hand lightly rubbing my lower abdomen. Staying still, I watched the flames in the fire pit and got some thinking done.
I love Lok, but not as I had once loved Master Liu. But then, love is different from person to person, right? Would my love for Lok be enough? Honestly, I wasn't sure yet.
To love him as I would a husband or mate.. The idea frightened me, yet the fragile beginnings were there, I could feel it. I couldn't bear to lose someone that close to me so soon, it would break me. I am a strong woman, yes. Only not that strong. A little bit of time was all that I needed.
My eyes slowly closed and a smile touched my lips at the feeling of warmth and safety, that Lok was providing.
