The Bench Grew Cold

As she inched nearer, Raheerah spared no time returning his gaze to her. He held her within the blazing mirror of his single eye, predatory in its essence. But the fatigue and softness with which he regarded his companion made him seem so much more tame, more real; as though he were not just a vicious shell, but a being jist as easily subject to mortal flaws. He could not return the tender kisses she unleashed on his jaws simply because he was not capable of it, but that did not mean Raheerah didn't appreciate them. The thunderous rolling in his chest persisted, akin to the pleasant purring of a satisfied cat, and he allowed her to continue her gesture for as long as she needed.

"Theenn I woouuld be faaailing my woorrd. Myy existeence aas yoour shadooww. Aand yoouu as myy liight." He tilted his head slightly, pressing it against her leg before returning to its previous position. Raheerah could not contemplate any reason for disliking her. He ha already said that she was ideal to him - her presence was unique, it offered him a tranquility that many, if not all others could not. Even Lham escaped this peace, for he held her above him. In doing so, he revered her, he clamored for her approval. Xi'nuata was not above him, but nor was she below. He enjoyed her presence as a creature of neutrality. His loyalty to her, and hers to him. "Myy thoouughts are noott maany. Aand myy emmootion even leesss. Buut yoouu, Xi'nuataa, plaace themm boothh at peeace." He uttered, turning his head. As she buried herself in the male's thick ruff, Raheerah restrd his chin against her neck. Gaze flicked back as far as it could see her, but her visage had left the range of his vision. He sucked in a breath and snorted quietly, allowing the cloud of her aroma to drown out all other smells.