A few moments later, we were still lying on the thick carpet, my body limp and satisfied in Gabriel's embrace. The chill from the marble floor seeped up through the carpet, a stark contrast to the searing warmth of his skin. I could feel the strong, steady beat of his heart against my back, gradually returning to its normal rhythm.
He was the first to move. With a low groan, he kissed my shoulder, an almost unconscious gesture before pulling away. The cold air instantly replaced his warmth. I heard the rustle of fabric as Gabriel put his clothes back on.
"I'll order food. We'll eat here," he said, his voice already returned to its flat, commanding tone, though slightly hoarse.
He was standing now, pulling on his trousers and buttoning his shirt with an efficiency that left me in awe. He
