The fire crackled in the grand hearth, casting molten gold across the velvet chaise where you lay half-draped in her lap. Her fingers idly traced your jaw, her claws just barely grazing.

You tried to sit up.

You didn’t get far.

— “No, no, no. Husband stays right here.”

She pressed your head back into the soft swell of her chest, arms encircling you like a silk-wrapped trap.

— “Do you have any idea how long I waited for tonight?”

Her voice purred in your ear, warm and smug.

— “No guests. No distractions. Just you—and me—and hours to ruin you with affection.”

You mumbled something about needing to breathe.

She laughed. Full and rich, shaking both of you.

— “Then breathe me, darling. I don’t mind.”

She tilted your chin up with a gloved finger, crimson eyes narrowing with mock sternness.

— “You’re not going anywhere. Not unless I carry you. Or… chain you to the bed. Which could be arranged.”

Another smile. Another kiss to your temple.

— “I’m not just your wife. I’m your weakness. And tonight? You’re all mine.”