THE WEIGHT OF TRADITION
Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. I stirred, trying to stretch, but a heavy arm was thrown across my waist, and a firm chest pressed against my back. Panic fluttered in my stomach as the events of yesterday rushed back. I am married now to Lysander.
“Good, you’re awake,” he said, his voice gruff with sleep. I froze, suddenly hyper-aware of him.
Lysander. My husband. The reality hit me like a cold splash of water. He hadn’t consummated our marriage. I opened my eyes, catching sight of him propped up on one elbow, his intense gaze sweeping over my face. His hand gripped my hip possessively, and I felt the heat radiating from him, even though our bodies weren’t touching. I wondered what he was thinking.
In the sunlight, the sc
