Maya and Carina decide to make the most of the beautiful weather. The sun is shining brightly, and the water looks inviting. They decide to enjoy the day in their own ways.

Maya, always the more active of the two, decides to go paddleboarding. "I need to burn off some of this energy," she says with a grin, grabbing a paddleboard from the villa's collection. "Plus, the water looks perfect for it."

Carina, on the other hand, has a different idea in mind. She smiles lazily, stretching out on one of the cushioned lounge chairs. "I think I'll just soak up the sun and work on my tan," she says, slipping on her sunglasses. "You go have fun out there, and I'll be here, looking fabulous."

Maya laughs as she heads down to the water, the paddleboard under her arm. "Sounds like a plan. Don't get too fabulous while I'm gone."

Carina blows her a kiss. "No promises!"

Maya paddles out into the calm, turquoise water, her strong strokes propelling her smoothly across the surface. The peacefulness of the ocean surrounds her, and she takes a deep breath, enjoying the feeling of being out on the water. It's a perfect way to clear her mind and feel at one with nature.

Meanwhile, Carina settles into her lounge chair, the warm sun kissing her skin. She closes her eyes, letting the rhythmic sound of the waves lapping at the shore lull her into a state of pure relaxation. Every so often, she peeks out from under her sunglasses to watch Maya out on the water, admiring the way her wife moves with such grace and strength.

Maya paddles back toward the shore. She spots Carina lying on the lounge chair, her skin glistening from the sun. As Maya gets closer, she realizes with a grin that Carina is topless, enjoying the freedom and privacy of their secluded villa.

Always one for a bit of playful mischief, Maya quietly slips off the paddleboard, letting it float beside her as she wades through the shallow water. She sneaks up on Carina, who is blissfully unaware of Maya's approach, her eyes closed as she soaks up the warmth of the sun.

Without warning, Maya scoops up a handful of water and splashes it over Carina's sun-kissed body. The cold water startles Carina, causing her to gasp and sit up abruptly, looking around for the culprit.

"Maya!" Carina shrieks, half-laughing, half-scolding as she wipes water from her face.

Maya, laughing and not at all remorseful, raises her hands in mock surrender. "What? You looked like you needed to cool off," she teases, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

Carina shakes her head, a grin spreading across her face. "Oh, you're going to pay for that," she says, quickly standing up and charging at Maya, who is now retreating into the water, still laughing.

The two of them splash around playfully in the shallow waves, Carina trying to get her revenge while Maya tries to dodge her splashes. Eventually, Carina catches up to Maya, and they end up in each other's arms, laughing and breathless from their little water fight.

"You're impossible," Carina says, leaning in to kiss Maya, her playful annoyance melting into affection.

As they float together in the gentle waves, Carina wrapped around Maya, the playful energy from their earlier water fight slowly ebbs into a quiet intimacy. The sun is beginning to set, casting a warm, golden light over the water, and the only sounds around them are the distant calls of seabirds and the rhythmic lapping of the waves.

Maya holds Carina close, her arms securely around her waist as they drift in the water. She takes a moment to simply enjoy the peacefulness of the moment before she speaks, her voice soft and contemplative.

"Carina," Maya begins, looking into her eyes, "what's your biggest fear?"

Carina's playful expression softens as she considers the question. She takes a deep breath, her gaze drifting out toward the horizon as she gathers her thoughts. After a few moments, she looks back at Maya, her voice quiet and sincere.

"I think my biggest fear is losing the people I love," Carina admits, her accent laced with emotion. "After losing my Nonna, I realized how fragile life is… how easily someone can be taken away. It's something that's always in the back of my mind."

Maya's grip on Carina tightens slightly, her heart aching at the vulnerability in Carina's words. "I'm so sorry, Carina," she murmurs, her voice filled with empathy. "That's a really hard thing to carry."

Carina nods, her fingers tracing small patterns on Maya's shoulder as she continues. "It's why I'm so protective, why I hold on so tightly to the people I care about. I don't want to lose anyone else."

Maya leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to Carina's forehead. "You won't lose me," she promises, her voice steady and filled with conviction. "I'm right here, and I'm not going anywhere."

Carina smiles softly, the warmth of Maya's words offering her a sense of comfort and reassurance. "I know," she whispers, leaning into Maya's embrace, her heart feeling lighter.

Carina pulls back slightly to look into Maya's eyes, her own expression thoughtful as she asks, "What about you, Maya? What's your biggest fear?"

Maya hesitates, her gaze dropping to the water between them. She's not used to opening up about her fears; it's something she's always kept buried deep inside, hidden beneath her confident exterior. But with Carina, it feels different. Safe.

She takes a deep breath, finally meeting Carina's gaze again. "I guess… I'm afraid of failing," Maya admits quietly. "Failing the people I care about, failing in my career, failing to live up to the expectations that have been placed on me… even the ones I've placed on myself."

Carina's expression softens, and she reaches up to gently stroke Maya's cheek. "Maya, you're one of the strongest people I know," she says reassuringly. "But you don't have to carry everything on your shoulders alone. It's okay to ask for help, to lean on the people who love you."

Maya nods, her heart swelling with gratitude for Carina's understanding. "I know," she says softly. "But sometimes it feels like there's so much pressure to be perfect, to never show weakness. I'm scared that if I slip up, even just once, everything will come crashing down."

Carina shakes her head, her eyes filled with love and compassion. "You don't have to be perfect, Maya. You're human, and that means it's okay to have fears, to make mistakes. What matters is that you keep going, that you learn and grow from everything that happens."

Maya smiles faintly, Carina's words offering her a sense of relief. "You always know just what to say," she murmurs, leaning in to press a kiss to Carina's lips.

Carina returns the kiss, her arms tightening around Maya. She whispers against her lips, "And I believe in you, Maya. You're stronger than you think, and you don't have to face anything alone."

"Thank you for being here with me, for understanding." Maya whispers as she kisses Carina's neck.

Carina smiles, resting her forehead against Maya's. "Sempre," she says in Italian, her voice tender. "Always."

Maya's heart swells with emotion as she holds Carina close, feeling a sense of peace she rarely allows herself to feel. They stay wrapped in each other's embrace, the waves gently rocking them as they share this moment of vulnerability and connection, their bond growing even stronger.

Carina pulls back slightly, her curiosity piqued. "So, who is your role model, Maya? The one person you look up to and strive to emulate?"

Maya's expression shifts, a flicker of thoughtfulness crossing her face. She pauses, considering the question. "I used to think my dad was my role model," she begins, her voice measured. "He was this figure of strength, discipline, and success. Everything I thought I needed to be. But as I grew older, I realized that a lot of what he taught me was based on fear, on pushing myself to extremes without considering my own well-being or happiness."

Carina listens intently, sensing the complexity in Maya's feelings.

"Honestly," Maya continues, "I don't know if I have just one role model anymore. I think I've started looking up to people who are strong, but also compassionate. People who can balance ambition with kindness, who don't let their drive for success overshadow their relationships or their integrity."

She pauses, then adds, "People like you."

Carina's eyes widen in surprise. "Me?" she asks softly.

Maya nods, her gaze steady. "Yeah, you. You're driven and passionate about your work, but you also never lose sight of the people you love. You're kind, compassionate, and you know how to stand up for yourself and others. You've taught me so much about what it means to be strong in a different way—one that's not just about winning or being the best, but about being true to yourself and the people around you."

Carina's eyes glisten with emotion, touched by Maya's words. "I never knew you felt that way," she murmurs.

Maya shrugs slightly, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You've been my rock through everything, Carina. I admire that you've found a way to be successful and still stay connected to what matters most. That's something I'm still learning."

Carina leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to Maya's lips. "You're doing an amazing job, Maya. And I'm proud of you for figuring out what kind of person you want to be, even if it's different from what you were taught."

Maya smiles, feeling a sense of clarity and peace in the realization. "Thanks, Carina. It means a lot to hear that from you."

Carina grins, her eyes sparkling with affection. "Well, I think you're pretty amazing too. And together, we can be our own kind of role models—for each other and for the life we want to build."

Maya gazes at Carina, her curiosity piqued. "What about you, Carina? Who's your role model?"

Carina's expression turns thoughtful as she considers the question. "I've had a few," she begins, her voice soft. "Growing up, my nonna was a big influence on me. She was strong, resilient, and deeply loving. She taught me to stand up for what I believe in and to always lead with my heart."

Maya smiles, imagining the kind of woman Carina's grandmother must have been. "She sounds incredible."

Carina nods, a fond smile crossing her lips. "She was. But, in terms of my career and how I approach life, I'd have to say my mother. Even though we didn't always see eye to eye, she was so passionate about her work. She dedicated her life to helping others, and I admired that about her. She showed me that it's possible to be deeply committed to what you do and still care for the people around you."

Maya listens intently, sensing the depth of Carina's admiration. "Do you think you're like her?"

Carina hesitates for a moment, then nods. "In some ways, yes. I think I've inherited her passion and her drive. But I also learned from her mistakes. I saw how she sometimes let her work consume her, and I've tried to find a better balance in my own life."

Maya reaches out, taking Carina's hand in hers. "You've done an amazing job with that, Carina. I see how much you care about your work and the people in your life. It's one of the things I love most about you."

Carina smiles warmly, her fingers curling around Maya's. "Grazie, amore. And you've shown me that it's possible to have both—success in our careers and love in our personal lives. We've both learned from our pasts, and I think that's what makes us strong together."

Maya leans in, brushing a kiss against Carina's lips. "You're right. We make a pretty great team."

Carina's eyes sparkle with affection as she gazes at Maya. "We do. And no matter what, we'll keep growing and learning together."

Maya nods, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "Yeah, we will. We better head in and start getting ready for dinner. Care to join me in the shower?"

Carina tosses her head back laughing "We will never make it for dinner if we do that. How about you shower and I will take quick bath."

"You do know, this is our honeymoon we can miss dinner if we want" Maya says as she peppers Carina's face with kisses.

"Bambina," Carina sighs "I am fully aware and I intend to have all the time for those activities."

— — —

The chef had prepared an extravagant five-course surf and turf meal, each dish more exquisite than the last.

The first course was a delicate lobster bisque, rich and creamy, with just a hint of sherry that warmed their palates. The chef had garnished it with fresh herbs, and the flavors melded together in perfect harmony.

Maya continued to drink her whiskey while Carina had opted to change wine selections with each course served.

Carina took a sip of her wine and turned to Maya, who was enjoying a glass of whiskey. "I've been meaning to ask, Maya. What is it about whiskey that you love so much?"

Maya looked thoughtful for a moment, swirling the amber liquid in her glass. "It's the complexity for me," she began. "Each whiskey has its own unique profile, with layers of flavors that unfold as you drink it. The aging process, the barrels—it all contributes to this rich, deep taste that's really satisfying. Plus, there's something almost ceremonial about enjoying a good glass of whiskey, like you're connecting with a long tradition."

Carina nodded, intrigued. "That makes sense. It's like each bottle tells a story, right? I guess that's a bit like wine in its own way."

Maya smiled, appreciating the comparison. "Exactly. So, what is it that draws you to wine? I know you're quite passionate about it."

Carina took a thoughtful sip from her glass, savoring the flavor before answering. "For me, it's the variety and the experience. Wine can be so different depending on the region, the grape, and even the year. I love exploring new wines and finding the perfect one to pair with a meal. It's like a little adventure in every bottle. And then there's the ritual of uncorking a bottle, pouring it, letting it breathe—it's all part of the enjoyment."

Maya leaned in, clearly interested. "So it's both the sensory experience and the ritual of it?"

"Exactly," Carina said with a smile. "It's about savoring the moment, whether it's a quiet evening with a glass of wine or sharing a bottle with friends and family. It adds a special touch to any occasion."

Next came a seared scallop dish, served with a light citrus beurre blanc and a touch of caviar. The scallops were tender and succulent, the sauce adding a tangy brightness that complemented the sweetness of the seafood.

Maya looked out over the calm waters of the villa's lagoon, taking a deep breath before turning to Carina. "Can I ask you something a bit personal?" she said, her tone both curious and hesitant.

Carina raised an eyebrow, sensing the seriousness in Maya's voice. "Of course. What's on your mind?"

Maya fiddled with her whiskey glass, trying to find the right words. "I've been thinking about our future and everything we've shared. I'm curious about your past, specifically… your past relationships. How many serious ones have you had before?"

Carina paused, considering Maya's question. She took a slow sip of her wine, contemplating how much to share. "I've had a few serious relationships before, each one different in its own way. None of them worked out for various reasons, but they taught me a lot about what I want and need in a partner. I think that's part of why I'm so sure about us now. I've learned from those experiences."

Maya nodded, her curiosity piqued. "What about them stood out to you? What did you learn from them?"

Carina smiled softly, thinking back. "One relationship taught me the importance of communication and trust. Another showed me that compatibility goes beyond just shared interests—it's about how you handle challenges together. And there was one where I realized that I needed someone who supports my ambitions and dreams, not just someone who fits into my life."

Maya listened intently, appreciating Carina's openness. "It sounds like you've done a lot of growing and reflecting. I guess that's part of what makes us work so well together. We've both had our share of experiences and know what we're looking for."

Carina reached out, touching Maya's hand gently. "Absolutely. And I'm grateful for every experience, because it's led me to you. I think we complement each other in a way that feels right and strong."

"Maya," Carina began, her tone serious but gentle, "we've talked about my past relationships, and I've shared a lot with you. But I need to ask you something important. Given your history with casual flings and shorter relationships, do you really think you can commit to one person for the long haul?"

Maya looked taken aback for a moment, her gaze dropping to her glass. She took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts. "I understand where you're coming from, Carina. I've had my share of flings and short-term relationships. They were part of my journey, but they don't define who I am now or what I want."

Carina's eyes searched Maya's face, looking for sincerity. "I'm not questioning your feelings for me, but I want to be sure. Commitment is a big step, and I need to know that you're ready for it. That you're not just drawn to the idea of us, but that you truly want to build a future together."

Maya nodded slowly, meeting Carina's gaze with determination. "I get it. I've spent a lot of time thinking about what I want and where I see myself. And I know that I want to build something real with you. My past relationships taught me a lot, and they've led me to this moment. I'm ready for commitment, for a future with you. I believe in what we have."

Carina's expression softened slightly, though her concern remained. "I want to believe that, Maya. I really do. But it's important for me to know that you're ready for the kind of deep, lasting commitment that marriage and a shared future require."

Maya took Carina's hand in hers, her voice earnest. "I am ready, Carina. I've never felt this way before, and I'm committed to making our relationship work. I want us to face challenges together, grow together, and build a life together. I hope you can see that in me."

Carina's gaze held a mixture of hope and vulnerability. "I do see it, Maya. I just needed to hear it from you, to know that we're on the same page about our future."

Maya gave Carina's hand a reassuring squeeze. "We are. I'm here for you, and I'm here for us. Let's move forward together, knowing we're both committed to making this work."

Carina nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "Thank you for being honest with me. I needed to hear that. Let's keep working on this together, and we'll face whatever comes our way."

For the third course, the chef presented a perfectly cooked filet mignon, crusted with black pepper and served alongside a red wine reduction. The meat was tender and juicy, melting in their mouths with each bite. Alongside the steak, there were truffle mashed potatoes, creamy and decadent, as well as roasted asparagus with a touch of balsamic glaze.

Carina looked at Maya with curiosity, her eyes reflecting the soft glow of the evening light. "Maya, we've talked a lot about our careers and the future, but I've been wondering something. If you weren't a corporate lawyer, what would be your dream job? What's the one thing you'd pursue if you had no limitations?"

Maya considered the question for a moment, her gaze drifting as she thought about her answer. "That's a great question, Carina," she said with a thoughtful smile. "If I weren't a corporate lawyer, I think I'd love to be involved in environmental conservation. I've always had a passion for nature and protecting the environment, and I think working in that field would be incredibly fulfilling for me."

Carina's eyes lit up with interest. "That's wonderful. What specifically would you want to do in environmental conservation?"

Maya's enthusiasm grew as she spoke. "I'd probably want to work on projects related to wildlife protection and habitat restoration. Maybe even work with organizations that focus on sustainable practices and climate change mitigation. I'd love to be part of something that makes a real difference in preserving our planet for future generations."

Carina smiled, clearly impressed by Maya's passion. "That sounds like a meaningful and impactful path. I can see how your skills and dedication could really shine in that field."

Maya shrugged, her tone light and hopeful. "I think so too. It's something I've always admired from afar. If the opportunity ever presented itself, I'd definitely consider making a change."

Carina looked thoughtful for a moment before responding. "It's amazing to hear you talk about something you're passionate about. I think it's important to have dreams and interests outside of our current roles. Maybe one day, we can find a way to integrate some of those passions into our lives, even if it's not our primary job."

Maya nodded, her gaze warm and appreciative. "I agree. And it's great to know you support those dreams, even if they're just ideas right now. It makes me even more excited about our future together."

Maya looked at Carina thoughtfully, leaning in slightly. "Carina, you mentioned that you've always been drawn to creative fields. But if you weren't working in advertisement and marketing for the family business, what would your dream job be?"

Carina considered the question, her gaze drifting as she thought about her ideal career. "Hmm, that's a good question. If I weren't in the family business, I think I'd love to be a curator for an art gallery or a museum."

Maya's interest was piqued. "That sounds fascinating! What appeals to you about being a curator?"

Carina's eyes lit up as she spoke. "I've always had a deep appreciation for art and history. The idea of curating exhibits and sharing stories behind various pieces of art or historical artifacts really excites me. I'd love to help people connect with art and history on a personal level."

Maya nodded in understanding. "That sounds like a perfect fit for your creative and analytical skills. You have such a knack for understanding and appreciating the finer details of things. I can see you excelling in that role."

Carina smiled, clearly pleased with Maya's reaction. "Thank you! I think it would be incredibly rewarding to be involved in bringing art and culture to the public. It's something I've always been passionate about, even if it's just been a hobby for now."

Maya reached over and took Carina's hand gently. "I think you'd be amazing at it. Your passion and dedication would definitely shine through. And who knows, maybe one day you'll have the chance to explore that dream."

The fourth course was a surprise—a butter-poached lobster tail, served with drawn butter and a side of wild rice pilaf. The lobster was tender and flavorful, the butter enhancing its natural sweetness.

Maya looked at Carina with a soft smile, her eyes reflecting genuine warmth. "You know, Carina, I really am enjoying getting to know you on this deeper level. It's been amazing to learn about your passions and dreams, and I feel like we're connecting in such a meaningful way."

Carina's eyes softened as she returned Maya's smile. "I feel the same way, Maya. These moments together, just talking and sharing our thoughts, are really special. It's like we're building a stronger bond and understanding each other even more."

Maya nodded, her expression thoughtful. "It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to have you in my life. We've got so much to learn from each other and so many adventures ahead. I'm really looking forward to it."

Carina's smile widened, her heart full. "Me too, Maya. This journey we're on, both in our relationship and in our individual dreams, is something I cherish deeply. I'm excited about our future together."

Carina glanced at Maya with a playful smirk, clearly enjoying the relaxed, intimate atmosphere. "Alright, Maya, I have to ask—what's one embarrassing story you haven't shared with me yet? I think it's time to hear something a bit more personal and, maybe, a little embarrassing."

Maya chuckled, shaking her head with a grin. "Oh, you're trying to dig up my secrets now, huh? Alright, let me think... There was this one time during a work presentation. I was so nervous that I mixed up the slides and started talking about a completely unrelated project. I didn't even notice until my boss gave me this confused look, and someone finally interrupted to tell me I was on the wrong topic. It was mortifying, and I had to scramble to get back on track. I definitely learned to double-check my slides after that!"

Carina laughed, clearly entertained. "That's a good one! It's always those little moments that stick with us, isn't it?"

Maya nodded, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Definitely. But it's all part of the learning experience, right?"

Carina smiled warmly. "Absolutely. And thanks for sharing. I promise not to use it against you... unless it's for a good laugh."

Maya grinned back. "Deal. And now I'm curious—what's an embarrassing story from your side?"

Maya leaned back with a mischievous grin, clearly enjoying their light-hearted conversation. "Alright, Carina, it's only fair—now it's your turn. Tell me an embarrassing story about yourself. I promise not to laugh too hard… maybe."

Carina looked slightly taken aback but then broke into a sheepish smile. "Oh, you're really pushing me now, aren't you? Okay, let me think..."

She paused, gathering her thoughts. "Alright, here's one. A few years ago, I was at a high-profile client dinner. I was trying to impress everyone with my wine knowledge, so I was going on about different vintages and how they pair with food. I was so engrossed in my spiel that I didn't realize I had a big spot of sauce on my cheek. It wasn't until someone discreetly mentioned it that I noticed and felt my face turn red. I tried to play it cool, but I'm sure everyone saw. Needless to say, I learned to double-check my appearance before getting into a conversation about fine dining!"

Maya laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "That's great! It's those little moments that make us human. Thanks for sharing that."

Carina grinned, looking relieved. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. And thanks for making me feel comfortable enough to share. It's nice to be able to laugh about these things."

Finally, dessert arrived: a rich chocolate fondant, warm and gooey in the center, served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis. The combination of dark chocolate and tart raspberries was the perfect end to their decadent meal.

The chef, attentive yet discreet, ensured that every detail was perfect, allowing the couple to focus on each other and the experience.

— — —

Maya and Carina strolled hand-in-hand to the deck, their earlier conversation still lingering in the air. The evening was cool and crisp, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves around them. The sky was a blanket of stars, their brilliance accentuated by the tranquil surroundings of the island.

As they settled into comfortable lounge chairs on the deck, Maya draped a light throw blanket over both of them. Carina leaned back, her head tilted towards the sky, taking in the beauty of the starlit night. Maya, meanwhile, couldn't take her eyes off Carina, her profile illuminated by the soft glow of the moon.

"This is perfect," Maya murmured, her voice barely more than a whisper. "I'm so glad we took this time for ourselves."

Carina turned her head, her eyes meeting Maya's. "Me too. It's been amazing, just us, away from everything else."

Maya reached out, brushing a stray strand of hair from Carina's face. "I've been thinking a lot about our future, especially with everything we talked about. It's kind of surreal to imagine what's next after all this."

Carina nodded, her expression thoughtful. "It is. But I think if we keep being honest with each other and supporting one another, we can handle whatever comes our way."

Maya smiled, leaning in to kiss Carina's temple gently. "I'm glad we're in this together. You've made everything so much better."

Carina nestled closer, her head resting on Maya's shoulder. "And you've made every moment unforgettable. I'm looking forward to the future with you."

Carina took a deep breath, the cool night air mixing with her apprehension. "I've been trying not to bring this up," she began, her voice soft but serious. "But I can't stop thinking about it. What do you plan to do about Sarah when we get back?"

Maya's expression shifted, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered Carina's concern. "I've been thinking about that too. Sarah crossed a line, and I want to address it properly. It's important to me that we handle this in a way that protects our relationship and ensures it doesn't happen again."

Carina's gaze was intense, her worry evident. "I'm scared that Sarah might try to do more to sabotage us. I don't want her to be a lingering threat to our relationship."

Maya reached out, taking Carina's hand in hers. "I understand how you feel. It's something I'm taking very seriously. I want to make sure that when we return, we address the situation with Sarah in a way that's fair but firm. I'll make it clear that her behavior was unacceptable and that there will be consequences if it happens again."

Carina squeezed Maya's hand, her expression a mix of relief and lingering concern. "I appreciate that. I just want to make sure we're protecting what we've built together."

Maya nodded, her resolve strengthening. "We will. Our relationship is my priority, and I'm committed to ensuring nothing gets in the way of it. We'll handle Sarah appropriately and make sure she understands the boundaries."

Carina's eyes softened as she looked at Maya. "Thank you. I just needed to know that you're as committed to this as I am."

Carina turned to Maya, her eyes serious yet tender. "Tonight, I don't want to have sex."

Maya's heart skipped a beat, a wave of panic washing over her. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice tight. "Is something wrong?"

Carina reached out, gently cupping Maya's face with her hand. "No, nothing's wrong. I just want something different tonight. I want you to make love to me."

Maya's apprehension began to ease as she processed Carina's words. "You want us to make love?" she repeated, her voice soft with understanding.

Carina nodded, her eyes filled with affection. "Yes. I want it to be special, more about us connecting deeply, not just physical intimacy. I want us to take our time and be completely present with each other."

Maya's relief was palpable, and she nodded, a smile beginning to form on her face. "I understand. I'd love that. It sounds wonderful."

Carina leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Maya's lips. "I'm glad. I just want to savor every moment with you, to make it something truly memorable."

Maya's heart swelled with emotion, and she wrapped her arms around Carina, pulling her close. "I feel the same way. Let's make tonight something special."

— — —

"How do you feel?" Maya asks, soft, quiet as she kneels down in front of Carina sitting naked on the bed. Carina readjusts so that one of her legs is draped over Maya's right shoulder.

"Good," she breathes.

Maya doesn't reply verbally, instead chosing to press a soft, hot kiss to her inner thigh. Carina watches as she kisses her legs, her nerves sparking. The first thing she feels is Maya's hot breath on her skin, her hand coming up to cup her vagina. Maya pushes, just enough, with the heel of her palm, and Carina instinctively grinds down on it, looking for something that will help with the growing heat in her.

Maya smiles, running that hand up her body, gentle, pulling her so that her knee bends over his shoulder. "You're so hot," she says, and it sounds like she isn't even saying it for Carina just a statement of fact.

"Maya," Carina pleads.

"Don't worry," Maya mumbles, bending her head, "I've got you." Carina lets go, and trusts her.

Maya makes Carina jump with her fingers, tracing the outside of her folds, soft and maddening. Carina can feel herself growing wetter, needy. Carina's hands are clenched tightly in the sheets, her hairline growing damp.

For what feels like it must be a full half hour, Maya just plays with her folds, leaning in to watch, making her shiver as she thumbs over her clit, dips barely into her throbbing core before retreating just to drive her even more crazy. Carina is on the verge of giving up and begging, but she lets Maya set the pace, body laid out at Maya's discretion.

Maya presses kisses to her clit, hot sucking kisses that make Carina keen and lift her hips off the bed. Carina's hot, burning up, squirming every time Maya dips her tongue into her. Carina finds the sounds almost unbearably sexy, the way Maya will suck on her clit and let go like a kiss, the soft smack of it reverberating out. Carina has had tender, passionate sex before, but this feels like a step beyond.

When she finally starts eating her out in earnest, Carina wraps her other thigh around her head, clenches down. Maya's tongue is hot and tender against her swollen, throbbing skin. She can't think of anything else, anything that isn't the touch of Maya's mouth on her.

When Maya starts to slide a finger inside her, Carina hardly recognizes it at first, so overwhelmed with touch and feeling. The feeling is visceral as she coaxes one into her, her body tight around it. She can feel Maya, the way she's unmistakably inside her. Carina grinds down against her tongue, desperate, and Maya responds by licking around her finger, making her gasp.

Maya slides another finger in as Carina sucks in a breath, closing her eyes. She can feel her body adjusting, a rush of heat running through her.

"Maya," she says, plainly, needy.

"Shh," Maya replies, placing a hand on her stomach. "I've got you, Car."

Carina breathes out, harsh, Maya's fingers a heavy, firm weight inside her. She wants Maya's cock in her, wants to feel Maya above her, inside her.

Maya pulls her fingers out abruptly, causing Carina to whine and tilt her hips against the force of her palm. Maya soothes her by humming gently as she presses a filthy, open mouthed kiss to her pussy.

Carina has never been more turned on in her life, writhing in the sheets that are now drenched in sweat. She wishes she could break free of the spell and push Maya down, ride her until she comes. But that's not what she really wants, so she closes her eyes and waits.

Maya's hands make their way to her arms, tracing, gentle. Maya touches the curve of Carina's stomach, brushing against her nipple and playing with her hair.

When Maya finally drags her cock across Carina's folds, Carina gasps from the shock of it, her frayed nervous system working overtime. Her pussy is hot and throbbing, still dripping from Maya's earlier efforts. Carina opens her eyes to see Maya leaning in, holding her cock against her opening. She can feel the silky hot skin, pushing against the bed to get more of it inside her.

Maya runs her hands up along her thighs, soothing, as she sinks in. Carina doesn't make a sound, wordless while Maya's cock pushes into her. She can feel everything with how sensitized her opening is, how it's tender from Maya's mouth and fingers.

When Maya finally stops moving, Carina takes a second to breathe, adjusting slowly. Maya's cock is resting inside her, heavy and hot. Carina's head spins as Maya starts to play with her nipples, thumbing over them and sucking.

"We fit together so well," Maya confesses, murmured somewhere near the vicinity of Carina's heart. "I never thought we would be here in this moment, together."

Before she gets a chance to reply, Maya sucks hard on her nipple, rocking slowly in and out of her. Carina's words get turned into soft moans and gasps. Maya is surrounding her, her cock deep in her, her mouth on her breasts.

When Carina comes, it's like nothing she's ever experienced. She can hardly even feel her body for a while, even though she can feel herself jolting as Maya's cock drags inside her.

Maya stops, leaning on an arm as she waits for Carina to say something. Carina musters up the energy for a smile, and gets a kiss in return.

"Can I-" Maya cuts herself off.

Carina loops her arm around Maya's neck and pulls her down so that she can whisper in Maya's ear, soft and private. "Maya, anything you want. Anything."

Carina lets go, just floats as Maya kisses her face and makes love to her slowly. She'd be impressed by her discipline if she didn't know Maya any better. Carina takes the time to run her hands over Maya's arms, a wealth of skin and muscle. By the time Maya comes with a loud, shakey exhale, Carina thinks she could do this her entire life.

"I'm going to-" Maya says, trailing off.

Carina nods, waiting for her to pull out of her. She's relaxed and happy, sprawled out, when Maya surprises her by settling between her legs again.

"Maya, what are you doing?-" she asks softly, reaching for her.

"You know, I wondered what you tasted like and what it felt like inside of you so many times" Maya says, nonsensical. Carina frowns, waiting. "When you went out with Lucas, it consumed me knowing that he was getting to taste you and be inside of you. I hoped he was treating you right but knew that he or anyone else could never treat you the way you deserved, the way I could treat you."

"He treated me well," Carina responds, running a hand up her arm.

Maya shakes her head and sighs. "Not like that."

"How then?" Carina questioned

"How about-" Maya cuts herself off to lift under Carina's legs, bending her knees, "I show you?"

Carina can feel her eyebrows raise involuntarily before she laughs and nods. Maya smiles at her, leans up to kiss her before turning her attention back to reducing Carina to a gasping mess. Maya was right, no one's ever treated her like this, worshipping her for hours. Maya keeps at it until she's sleepy, spent.