Peeta's smoldering gaze holds mine as he draws me closer to him, the blanket over our heads keeping our body heat in. My breathing is quick as he covers my neck with sweet, passionate kisses. I can only imagine how long he has been waiting for this— my fears of bearing children crippled me from engaging in any heavy romance until now. I trust Peeta more than ever. His warm hands coast down my bare torso softly, but there's no mistaking the hunger in his eyes. A shiver shoots down my spine and I inhale sharply when his lips brush down past my stomach. My entire body is about twice as sensitive than it is normally. Peeta's hands linger at my chest until he resurfaces and kisses me; slowly, fiercely. I've never seen him so daring and sure of himself. It's exciting to see the dominant side of my husband surface, and my desire intensifies at the thought.I wrap my legs around his waist and press my body to his so we mold together perfectly. He needs no further urging. I lay flat on my back, heart pounding from the anticipation of my craving being fulfilled. Peeta tames his own hunger for a moment, meeting my gaze softly, as if asking "are you sure?"
I touch my fingertips to his flushed cheek. Surely my eyes convey the intolerable desire I feel? He quickly regains confidence and gains entry, a low growl of pleasure ripping from deep in his chest. I'm gripped by a burning sensation. It's not supposed to hurt, is it? A white-hot flash of panic startles me, and Peeta looks at me for permission to continue. I kiss him. His pelvis slowly withdraws from mine, then thrusts back in. The burning soon gives way to immeasurable pleasure that has me clutching onto the bed sheets.
We're both sweating and gasping when it's over. I've never felt more connected to Peeta. He wraps his arms around me and I melt into him, giving into exhaustion. He kisses the top of my head and hums a soft, sweet song. My heart threatens to burst. The love I feel is so overwhelming that for the first time, I find myself longing for what I've feared for so long. Longing for a little piece of hope to hold.