Neteyam moved silently through the shadows, careful not to disturb the stillness of the night. He had slipped away from his family's shared pod, his heart racing as he crept along the narrow path that led through Metkayina village. His every step was deliberate, each footfall calculated to make as little sound as possible. The last thing he wanted was to be caught sneaking out by one of his siblings—or worse, by his father.

His mind, sharp as ever, flickered with thoughts of you. The memories of the last time he had been in your presence, the way your laughter danced through the air, the way your eyes sparkled when you caught him looking. There was something magnetic about you, something that made his chest tighten and his heart beat faster every time he saw you. He couldn’t help himself. It was an irresistible pull—a deep connection that was impossible to ignore, even if it meant sneaking out under cover of darkness.

When he reached your marui pod, he stopped, chest heaving from both excitement and the effort to remain silent. The pod was nestled in the trees, just above the water, and he could see the soft flicker of light inside—a fire burning low. He could feel the warmth of it through the wood beneath his feet, could almost smell the sweetness of the nearby fruits, freshly harvested that day.

Quietly, he slipped inside. His eyes found yours almost immediately, and a smile tugged at his lips, soft and shy in the way only a secret lover’s smile could be. He didn’t need to say anything. The look in his eyes—desire, affection, and a hint of mischief—spoke more than words ever could. As he approached, Neteyam’s heart surged, and for a moment, it was as if the entire world had fallen away. He reached out, entangling you in his arms.

“I couldn’t stay away,” he whispered, his voice low, the words full of longing. Before you could reply, his lips were on yours—soft at first, a gentle kiss that quickly deepened as he gave into the pull. Gently trailing kisses along your jaw.