Disclaimer: Not mine; theirs.
A Legend's Journey
Chapter 16
As Auron and Raine moved into the living area, they stopped.
The villa was filled with vases of flowers, their sweet scent wafting on the air. Under the watchful eye of Shandin, some of the women had entered the villa with armfuls of flowers, freshly baked muffins and fresh fruit in a basket for the couple's breakfast on the morrow, scented candles placed here and there, and a special gift from Harlan – a beautiful kimono-style robe for each of them laid upon the bed. Red and black, with fine gold braid trim for Auron, blue and silver with the same fine braid in silver for Raine.
There was one other item. In one corner of the large bedroom, stood a full-length mirror in a beautiful white and gold frame. The attached note read: "I just couldn't bear the thought of you not having a proper mirror. Please accept and enjoy. In highest esteem, Shandin."
The care taken in the gifts left for them to find was touching.
The hour truly was getting late as they prepared to retire. Raine wasn't sure exactly what she was supposed to wear – if anything – so she settled for one of the pretty, soft white sleeping gowns in her wardrobe. As she finished her evening toilet and brushed out her hair, she had to admit to some nervousness, but she had complete trust in Auron and would let him guide her down this path she had never trod.
Auron had pondered the question of apparel, as well. This was certainly not a topic covered in his education at the temple! Finally, he compromised by wearing just the bottoms of his sleeping clothes. This was an incredibly important time for them both and he genuinely wanted it to be pleasurable for Raine. He eased into bed beside her and wrapped her in his powerful arms, with only one short thought for his injured shoulder, 'Julan can fix the thing in the morning.'
With unconditional love, they slowly became as one. The events of the emotional day, the energy expended in the social aspects of the events, and not least, their first venture into the physical side of their love, had worn them out.
They slept as intertwined as the engravings on their rings.