He leaned in, kissing her again, slow and full. A kiss that wasn't about claiming. Just savoring.
When he pulled back, she smiled sleepily. "I could get used to this. Warm nights, starlight… taking your big meat and your ant instincts."
Kai stood first, stretching, then helped her rise. Luna winced slightly and giggled.
"Definitely going to feel that for days…"
Kai retrieved their garments from the stone terrace, helping Luna dress first, then pulling his own chitinous armor back over his chest. Though it felt like the world should've changed after their union, the mountain still remained quiet, watching two lovebeasts.
The journey down the slope was slower. Luna leaned on him, letting her bare feet brush soft moss patches and glowleaf roots. Her smile never faded.
As they entered the upper alcove of the lair, a gentle golden pulse came from the center nest.
Miryam stirred.
