Chapter 64. Confession

She noticed the stark contrast between their hands—his were large, rough, and strong, while hers were small, delicate, and polished, like a child's hand against his. Her slender fingers, painted with bright nail polish, looked fragile next to his calloused palms.

She could see the veins bulging in his hands, especially when he tensed, as if they might burst at any moment.

Even without doing anything, every muscle in his hand radiated power.

Emerald trembled slightly, but Alaric remained silent, clearly waiting for her to do more.

Remembering how he used to intertwine their fingers during intimate moments, Emerald mimicked his movements, carefully sliding her fingers between his, like a child stacking blocks, fully focused.

The moment their fingers locked, Alaric tightened his grip. The pressure was almost painful, but Emerald didn't pull away. Instead, she let him hold her close, as he leaned down, wrapping one arm around her neck and letting her feel t