UNDERNEATH THE MASK

CHAPTER:9

THE FIRST NIGHT

The hotel suite was bathed in a soft golden glow, the flickering candlelight casting shadows along the walls. The city skyline stretched beyond the glass windows, but Kevin had eyes only for Jessica. She stood by the edge of the bed, still in her wedding dress, her fingers trailing along the delicate lace as she watched him approach.

Kevin loosened his tie, his blue eyes dark with something deeper than just desire—it was love, raw and unfiltered. “You’re staring,” she whispered, echoing the words she had said earlier at the altar.

Kevin smirked, reaching out to tuck a stray curl behind her ear. “Can you blame me?” His voice was rough, filled with emotion.

Jessica’s heart pounded as he traced his fingertips along her arm, sending shivers down her spine. This was different. This wasn’t just a moment of passion—it was a promise, a beginning.

Kevin reached for the delicate buttons on the back of her dress, his hands surprisingly gentle. “Tell me if you want me to stop,” he murmured against her skin.

Jessica exhaled, leaning into him. “I don’t want you to stop.”

With careful hands, he slid the fabric from her shoulders, pressing soft kisses along the path he uncovered. Jessica shivered at the sensation, at the way Kevin worshipped her with every touch, every glance. His lips brushed against the curve of her collarbone, and she melted into him, her hands finding their way into his hair.

Kevin pulled back just enough to look at her, his expression unreadable. “You’re so damn beautiful, Jess.” His voice was barely above a whisper.

Jessica reached for his shirt, unbuttoning it slowly, savoring the way his muscles tensed beneath her touch. When the fabric slipped from his shoulders, she traced the faint scars on his skin—reminders of the boy he used to be, the battles he had fought. She kissed each one, silently telling him that none of it defined him anymore.

Kevin inhaled sharply, cupping her face in his hands. “I love you,” he said, the words carrying the weight of every wall she had broken down.

Jessica smiled, her fingers sliding over his heart. “I love you, too.”

And as they fell onto the bed together, tangled in sheets and whispered promises, Kevin realized something.

For the first time in his life, he wasn’t afraid.

Because this wasn’t just their first night.

It was the start of forever.