Chapter 149 I… Can’t Help Myself

After a long moment, Celeste tentatively reached out, wrapping her arms around Nathaniel's waist. His embrace was always warm. It reminded her of a thick, heavy blanket—firm but enveloping, surrounding her in a heat that made her feel completely safe. In his arms, everything seemed to melt away. The world outside, the past, their troubles—it was all distant now. She only wanted to stay like this, holding him close, forgetting everything else. Then, she felt the soft press of his lips on her forehead. Nathaniel's face was filled with tenderness, his movements slow and deliberate, as if he had all the time in the world. He kissed her gently, almost reverently, starting at her forehead, then moving down to her eyes, the bridge of her delicate nose, until finally, like a devoted worshiper, he placed a heated kiss on her lips. It was a deep, unhurried kiss full of quiet passion. Nathaniel's kiss was different today—so much softer than usual, almost achingly tender. He guided her