Slander
Khimi tightens the last strap on the chestnut stallion’s saddle, his movements brisk. The barn is quiet, save for the rustle of hay and the faint creak of an oil lantern swaying from a post. Its glow carves shadows along the walls, stretching and shrinking with each sway. He gives the stallion a firm pat on the flank, ready to move—until the hair rises at the back of his neck. His muscles go taut. Instinct kicks in. He pivots sharply, hand hovering near his scimitar, eyes locking onto the figure lounging in the moonslit doorway. The curved horns give her away before the lantern does. Ennui. She says nothing. Just watches, the silver gleam of her gaze a knife against the dark.
Khimi exhales hard, turning back to the saddlebags with a grumble. He tugs a buckle tight, shaking off the tension coiling in his shoulders. He knows why she’s here. Compensation, no doubt.
With a final pull on the strap, he straightens and finally acknowledges her. “I suppose you’re not here to flirt,” he mutters, irritation threading through his voice. “You’ve got damn fine timing. I was just leaving.”
Ennui’s lips curl, slow and sharp. “No,” she murmurs, fingers brushing the hilt of the stiletto tucked in her boot. “You’re not.”
Khimi’s hand drops to his scimitar. “What’re you doing?”
Ennui lets out a low laugh, fingers lingering on the blade before she pulls it free and tosses it into the hay at his feet. “I’m not here to kill you,” she muses, mocking his suspicion. “Though someone did offer a handsome sum for your head.”
Khimi scoffs, glancing down at the ornate handle of the stiletto. “What, a handful of copper?”
“You wound me,” she purrs. “I could have retired somewhere nice, never had to work again. Maybe run off to Dolmas, fill a house with whores…” She flicks a strand of black hair from her face, watching him with amused detachment.
Khimi frowns, thinking aloud. “My family has enemies, but none foolish enough to put a bounty on my head. Omar? No—he’s already getting what he wants. He’s seen you in my company before. He wouldn’t be so bold…” He trails off, his brows knitting together. Jilliana… no. Could she be so scorned that she’d have me killed?
Ennui perches herself on a bale of hay, stretching out like a lounging cat. “A certain lady has accused a certain someone,” she drawls, gesturing toward him, “of assault. She’s seeking Revya’s judgment.”
“Fuck.” His jaw clenches. “Jilliana did all of this?”
Ennui tilts her head, her expression unreadable. “That’s not the best part.” She taps her nails against her knee. “I received a summons to the Kappas Estate recently. Turns out, Jilliana is one of Omar’s wives’ daughters.”
Khimi’s reaction is immediate—a sharp, incredulous growl. “What? She looks nothing like that hideous fuck.”
Ennui shrugs. “I don’t believe she is of his stock,” she says quietly. “Also, hush your yelling… someone might be listening.”
Khimi clenches his fists. “What’s their play here? You must have some insight.”
She smirks. “It’s simple, really. You’re the last of your lineage. If Jilliana convinces Revya she’s telling the truth, and—” she twirls a finger in the air, “—happens to be with child, then…”
“Then that child becomes the last of my line,” Khimi spits, fury simmering beneath his words. “Which means Omar gains access to my wealth the moment I’m dead.” His breath hisses through his teeth. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
“‘Fraid not,” she replies with a silvery lilt. “If you leave now, you’ll only draw suspicion.”
Khimi exhales sharply. “Thank you… for bringing this to me. I need to get ahead of them.” He moves with purpose, stripping the saddlebags from the stallion and slinging them over the wooden railing.
He stands in the dimly lit barn, staring directly at Ennui. Though their eyes meet in the darkness, it is as if they are attempting to pick one another’s brains, searching desperately for a solution to the complication. My father wouldn’t have ever allowed himself to be put into this sort of compromising situation. The thought sours his mood further. With a growl of frustration, he yanks at the buckles of his jerkin.
“There’s an easy solution,” Ennui murmurs, her voice velvety and quiet. “I’m not above it. Just say the word.” She twirls a strand of black hair around her pale fingers before tracing them to the pointed tip of her horns, absently testing their sharpness.
Khimi doesn’t need to ask what she means. “Removing her would be simple, yes, but hardly diplomatic.” He exhales, rubbing his chin. “I’d rather not have Jilliana vanish before we get a chance to hear her out. There must be a way to expose the truth behind her farce.”
Ennui tilts her head, feigning sympathy. “Like it or not, you did stick her prick in her.”
Khimi freezes mid-motion, then groans loudly. “I did no such thing!”
“Who’s to say?” She shrugs, expression unreadable. “What happens behind closed doors is a mystery… though, judging by how flustered you just got, one might think you’ve something to confess.”
Khimi rolls his eyes and tosses his leather jerkin onto the fence. Running his fingers through his hair, he steadies his thoughts. When he finally moves, it’s to reach inside the saddlebag, retrieving a small burlap sack. He weighs the gold in his palm before turning to her.
“This is going to haunt me forever, isn’t it?” he mutters. “How much do you want? Surely you didn’t bring me this information out of sheer goodwill.”
Ennui smirks, letting her fingers linger on the curve of her hip. “I was thinking of something a little more permanent than a lump sum.”
Khimi arches a brow. “You want employment.”
She chuckles, kicking at the hay. “You’re in need of allies, and truthfully? You intrigue me. Always have.”
He studies her, the gold still in his grasp. “So, you want to be in my service?” He shakes his head with something between amusement and exasperation. “I suppose I could have something drawn up.”
“Not asking for much,” she muses, folding her arms. “Besides, you and the aslan make for good entertainment.”
Khimi snorts. “Are you in such desperate need of friends?”
Ennui grins. “Not desperate. But working under one of the most powerful families in the Desert Cities does have a certain appeal. That, and…” She tilts her head, her smirk softening just a fraction. “Your friendship is something I always found worth keeping.”
“You should have had enough coin to retire three times over from our past dealings… what “Nothing for you to concern yourself with,” she replies with an air of finality. “So, can I trust I will be compensated and cared for under the Zeybek’s employ?” She taps a finger against her chin.
Khimi walks towards the stallion, grabbing hold of its bridle, and gently runs his hand along the beast’s face, brushing him before walking him into an empty stall. The stallion whinnies loudly then stomps his hooves while Khimi sits on a large trunk outside the stall. Almost feels too good to be true. Her coming here with this kind of information. It could be a trap. He pulls off his riding boots, setting them aside with a sigh.
“Of course, Ennui. You’ll be compensated and cared for. I’ll handle the details tomorrow. I trust I have your loyalty and confidentiality, then?” Khimi studies her expression, searching for any cracks in her usual composure.
Ennui smiles, placing a hand over her chest. “On my honor,” she says smoothly. “Or what little I have left of it,” she adds with an off-putting laugh.
“That isn’t concerning or anything,” he mutters, rolling his eyes. He slides on his leather babouches. “I’m serious, Ennui. Whatever this business with Omar is… I want it handled quickly. And don’t mention anything to Lumi.” He stands from the trunk.
Ennui tilts her head, her brows knitting together. “Any particular reason?”
Khimi exhales, rubbing the back of his neck. “I don’t think he’d take the news well. He was looking forward to leaving Rhaz for a bit.” He hesitates before resting a hand on her shoulder. “He wanted to get to know me away from all of this.”
“Does he know… that your life is chaotic and full of shit?” she asks dryly, tapping a finger against his arm.
Khimi snorts. “He’s learning.” He strides past her into the moonslit yard.
As he moves through the courtyard, passing a few servants along the way, he feels their gazes linger. His heart pounds, anger simmering beneath his skin. The heat within him begs for release. He tugs at his linen shirt, fanning himself. There is never going to be any solace for me. Pausing, he glances back. The servants quickly avert their eyes, exchanging hushed murmurs. Khimi exhales heavily, pressing forward beneath the long pathway to his chambers. What am I going to tell him? His fingers tighten around the brass door loops. I can’t lie to him. He rips the door open, stepping into the darkened room. He tiptoes forward, careful not to disturb Lumi, resting atop a mound of cushions. Khimi watches him stir, stretching his legs like a waking cat.
“Took you long enough,” Lumi mumbles groggily, voice muffled by the pillows.
“We do have an actual bed, you know,” Khimi teases, crouching beside him.
“Oh, really?” Lumi replies with mock surprise, smirking before flopping back into the cushions. “I don’t think I can muster the strength to make it. My poor ass…”
“You’re still sore?” Khimi strokes Lumi’s cheek, fingers tracing his jawline.
Lumi exhales dramatically. “Didn’t even know those muscles could be sore…” His expression darkens as he catches the tension in Khimi’s features. “But what’s wrong? I can tell something’s bothering you.”
Khimi brushes a hand over his face. “Our trip… it might be delayed.”
Lumi sits up straighter. “What happened?”
“It’s not something I want you involved in,” Khimi says bluntly.
Lumi huffs. “But we’re involved, so I’m involved.”
“You know what I mean,” Khimi replies. “It’s just something that could be dangerous for you to get mixed up in. And I would rather keep you safe.”
Sighing, Khimi lies down next to Lumi, and toes off his shoes before sinking into the soft cushions. As he tosses them aside, he gives Lumi a confident smirk, hoping to ease the tension between them. I hope he isn’t mad at me. He surveys Lumi’s expression briefly before a cushion smashes him on the back of the head and Lumi embraces him.
Lumi’s heart beats in rhythm with his own.
Though he has always thought of himself as someone who could hide his emotions, he finds himself unable to withhold his trembling jaw. He presses his lips onto Lumi’s shoulder, drying his eyes on Lumi’s linen shirt, while Lumi presses his cheek against Khimi’s and begins to purr audibly under their embrace. The beating of Lumi’s heart is so strong with the resounding vibrations of his purrs that it rattles Khimi’s chest.
“Are you crying?” Lumi asks as he pulls Khimi closer, burying them both in the mound of cushions. “Don’t feel bad about not being able to leave the city. I still feel like I can’t walk anyway,” he chuckles before nuzzling his cheek against Khimi’s.
“I’m just tired,” Khimi lies, melting atop Lumi. “I’ve been exhausted lately,” he whispers, burying his face in the space between Lumi’s ears.
“Liar,” Lumi whispers, coiling his legs behind him. “Not that tired, it seems.”
Khimi’s cock pushes against Lumi through the fabric. He hadn’t even noticed he was aroused. Even with the slightest touch, Lumi can make his inner desire awaken. The softness of his skin, the scent of his hair, every part of him, an intoxicating libation he cannot consume enough.
“Thought you were too sore to do it again?” Khimi grumbles. His hands grip Lumi’s narrow waist like he’s about to snap the boy in half.
“We can do other things,” Lumi responds, biting his lip seductively. “And it’s not my fault… you coulda gone easy on me!” he whines, tightening his thighs.
Khimi barks out a laugh, mocking the high-pitched whimpers he’d coaxed out of Lumi last night. “Harder, please. Khimi, please,” he mimics, his voice pitched to a sultry falsetto that makes Lumi’s cheeks burn crimson. “You definitely seemed like you wanted me to take it easy on you.”
“How dare you!” Lumi growls, but it’s playful, teasing, as his hand slips between them, palming the swollen outline of Khimi’s cock through the fabric. His fingers trace the thick vein running along the underside, and Khimi hisses, his hips bucking involuntarily.
“Nah uh,” Khimi says, grinning. He pushes himself up and straightens himself. “You’re too sore, remember?” He smirks as he pushes his trousers down his hips, revealing the full, aching length of his shaft.
“I said… we could do other things,” Lumi breathes, his eyes glinting hungrily in the moonslight. “And now you’re rippin’ your trousers off!”
“Right,” Khimi murmurs, stepping in front of him, cock bobbing. “Then why don’t you show me just how badly you want it?” he adds with a confident smirk as he shifts his hips from side to side. The slightest bit of motion causes his cock to swish and sway.
“And you called me a tease,” Lumi grumbles. But he’s already moving, sprawling over the cushions. His hips writhe back and forth, tail flicking behind him with impatience. “We’ve barely fucked, and you’re already holding out on me?” he pouts, chin resting in his palm like a brat.
“Don’t want to watch?” he asks, fisting himself slow and taunting, never breaking eye contact.
A thick bead of precum weeping from the tip and falling to the floor.
“‘Course I do,” Lumi gulps, snatching up the discarded trousers and pressing them to his face. He inhales deep, nose buried in the fabric, and moans softly. His eyes flutter. “Your scent’s everywhere,” he whispers, dragging the cloth down his cheek, over his lips. “So strong… it’s addictive.”
“I-I… th-thanks,” Khimi says, feeling a surge of heat rush through him at Lumi’s declaration. “I figured you might be into this kind of thing.” He tugs his shirt over his head to bare more of himself.
“You figured, huh?” Lumi’s eyes glisten, his gaze devouring every inch of skin Khimi reveals. “It’s criminal, honestly… watching you waste your seed on the floor like that.” His tongue glides over his teeth like he’s already tasting it.
Khimi chuckles low, his fingers skimming the hard ridges of his abdomen. “I’ll let you choose where it goes… how about that?”
Lumi bites his lip, eyes dark with hunger. “Promise?” he breathes, voice cracking with want.
“Think of it as a reward,” Khimi replies, stroking himself in slow, deliberate pumps. “If you’re a good boy.”
His fingers trail lower, fondling the weight of his balls as his cock throbs. Lumi shifts, spreading himself wider on the plush cushions, his tail flicking eagerly behind him. The sight makes Khimi’s breath hitch, he’d ravage him right now if he wasn’t so determined to draw this out. Scattered memories of the last few nights flood his mind: Lumi’s ass, tight around him, his high-pitched cries echoing in his ears. He presses a thumb to the weeping slit of his cock, smearing precum across the sensitive head as he groans.
Lumi sits up, tossing his half-shirt aside and wiggling out of the oversized trousers. Then he sinks back down, gloriously bare, a picture of need sprawled across the pillows. His hips roll against the fabric beneath him, teasing, showing off. He knows exactly what he’s doing.
Khimi watches, hand still working his length, the other tweaking a nipple as a bolt of pleasure shoots through him. Lumi grinds harder, ears twitching, tail lashing wildly. Their eyes lock—Lumi’s full of unrestrained lust, Khimi’s burning with restraint on the edge of snapping.
“Are you really gonna keep this up?” Lumi huffs, tongue dragging across his lower lip.
“I’m enjoying the view,” Khimi growls through clenched teeth. “T-that face… y-you make—gods.”
“Please… Khimi,” Lumi pleads. “Just come lay with me.”
“I’m getting closer,” Khimi growls, his voice rough with need. His teeth grit as he fights the urge to fall atop Lumi and bury himself in that warmth. The thought of his cum spurting deep, filling, overflowing, makes his balls ache.“I t-think I’m about to come.”
“Just. Get. Over. Here,” Lumi whines and reaches out, fingers curling toward Khimi’s feet, begging for contact. “Kiss me.”
Khimi halts and glances down at Lumi, taking in the sight of him spread out on the cushions. There’s a hunger in Lumi’s eyes, a wild lust that mirrors Khimi’s. He steps over the cushions, knocking them aside as he mounts Lumi. Lumi’s breath hitches as Khimi’s lips find the nape of his neck, his teeth sinking into the soft skin there. The bite is sharp, possessive, and it makes Lumi moan, his back arching as Khimi’s cock rubs against his ass cheeks. The coarse fur of Lumi’s tail brushes against Khimi’s side. Their hands brush together on the cushions, the curious fabric, smooth and silky against their skin.
“Is this where you want it?” Khimi teases. He presses the slick tip against Lumi’s entrance, feeling the way it twitches and pulses around him. The heat is intoxicating, and Khimi has to fight the urge to thrust forward.
“Y-yes,” Lumi whispers. His cheeks flush a deep red as he looks back at Khimi, eyes wide and pleading.
Khimi grins wickedly, his hand moving to grip the base of his cock. He presses the hardened length tight against Lumi’s entrance, feeling the way it gives slightly under the pressure. He’s so close, so close to being inside Lumi, to feeling the heat envelop him.
“Khimi—” Lumi gasps. “If you want to put it in… just put it in,” he whispers, near to begging.
“I thought you were too sore,” Khimi says mockingly, forcing himself against Lumi with more insistence. He brings his lips to Lumi’s ear and whispers seductively, “I do want to sink my cock into you, though.”
“Please,” Lumi pleads again, voice breaking. His tail stiffens, the fur standing on end as he reaches back, spreading his cheeks for Khimi. “Put it in…”
“But you’re hurting,” Khimi taunts, snorting as he flicks the tip of his cock up and down, teasing Lumi’s entrance with the slick head. Precum drips in long pearls between Lumi’s cheeks.
“It’s… fine!” Lumi exclaims, his voice high-pitched with desperation. He thrusts his hips backwards, trying to take Khimi inside him. “I’ll have your cubs! J-just put it inside!”
“Nah uh,” Khimi teases again, his hand gripping Lumi’s waist. He pulls back slightly, just enough to make Lumi whimper in frustration. “We can do other things, remember?”
Lumi’s body flushes deeper as he pleads with desperate words. His eyes are wide and glassy, filled with a lust so intense it nearly takes Khimi’s breath away. “Please… Khimi, pour it inside. I just want to feel you fill me.” His voice trembles with need, his soft lips quivering as he speaks. “I promise I’ll have your kids! I’ll give you an heir!” He’s on the verge of crying now.
Khimi scoffs, a blush creeping up his cheeks at Lumi’s pleading. He can’t resist. “Al-alright,” he says finally, giving in to Lumi’s demands. “Since you want it so bad.”
He quickly strokes himself, his hand moving up and down his shaft with quick, jerky movements. Precum leaks from the tip, pooling against Lumi’s entrance. Lumi moves his hips from side to side, his ears twitching each time Khimi’s cock runs across his hole. Sweat runs down Khimi’s brow, dripping onto Lumi’s heated skin. He hovers above Lumi’s boyish form, focusing on the beauty beneath him. He breathes erratically, finding himself edging near climax. Unable to stop himself, he shoves the tip in. It’s overwhelming, and he has to grit his teeth to keep from thrusting forward. Lumi purrs loudly, the vibrations coaxing him to slide deeper, but he holds fast, forcing himself from plunging. He’s so warm…
“Just push it in,” Lumi whimpers. His hole clenches around the tip, the puckered skin massaging Khimi’s length.
Khimi growls again, grinding the tip against that tight ring of muscle, watching it stretch and quiver under the pressure. With a grunt, his body tenses, hips stuttering. His cock pulses as he comes, thick ropes of cum pouring just beyond the boy’s entrance. Lumi gasps, his toes curling in delight as he stretches his legs in languid surrender. Khimi rasps for air, holding fast onto Lumi’s waist, the tips of his thumbs press together across the back of his waist. He’s so small. His eyes drift down to their connection, his cock still twitching inside Lumi’s entrance. Cum’s oozing out around the head of his cock, and when he pulls back, a thick, sticky string stretches from his slit to Lumi’s hole. He releases a heavy breath, looking down at Lumi, who’s still spreading his cheeks wide, his hole looking like an overflowing chalice. Little devil.
“You want more?” Khimi asks with a snort. “Truly?”
“Always,” Lumi whispers, eyes glazed over in a lusty haze.
“How about,” Khimi starts and drops to his knees. “I please you now?” he asks, gently placing his hand on Lumi’s waist.
Lumi rolls onto his back, his pink cock hard and throbbing, precum glistening on the tip. The little patch of blond hair at his groin is slick with sweat and seed. He bites his lip, squirming under Khimi’s touch. “How do you mean?” he whispers, his voice trembling.
Khimi smirks, running his fingers up and down Lumi’s soft thighs, stopping just shy of his leaking cock. “Like this,” he murmurs, his fingers inching closer to Lumi’s quivering entrance, teasing the sensitive rim.
Lumi’s breath hitches, his whole body trembling. “If you put your fingers in… it’ll all spill out,” he whimpers, his cheeks flushing.
Khimi chuckles, wrapping one hand around Lumi’s tiny cock while the other circles his wet hole. “I promise it won’t be the last time I fill you.”
“Heavens,” Lumi hisses, averting his gaze from Khimi. He moans the moment Khimi’s finger push into him. “Khimi… please just fuck me,” he rasps with a sense of desperation, sweat running down his face. “It’ll be okay…”
“Perhaps,” Khimi whispers, pressing deeper into him. His cum makes the perfect lubricant, and soon he’s thrusting his fingers in and out of Lumi’s greedy hole, stretching him open. Lumi’s inner walls clench around his fingers, and he can feel every little tremble and twitch. His other hand works Lumi’s cock, thumb and forefinger sliding up and down the shaft. Lumi’s dick is so small it only takes a few strokes to have him leaking like a river.
The stretch of Khimi’s large digit, knead against the warm padded walls, sliding in and out gently. He withdraws, only to circle around the entrance. Knowing that Lumi’s body is accustomed to his finger, he shoves his ring and middle finger inside, bringing a gasp of pleasure from Lumi’s lips. His movements become more vigorous, his hand soaked with the wet of his cum. Khimi presses deeper inside, then wiggles the tips, rubbing along the sensitive insides. Lumi’s ears lay flat while he tosses his head back in pleasure. Dallops of precum drip over Lumi’s abdomen from his swollen tip. He’s fighting it, he thinks and stifles a laugh.
“It’s okay,” Khimi murmurs, leaning forward to lick a hot stripe up Lumi’s cock. “You can come,” he purrs in a drawn-out whisper, his tongue flicking over the sensitive tip. “I want you to come for me.”
“I already have,” Lumi squeaks, biting down on his hand to stifle a moan. “When you were… touching yourself,” he admits, his voice shaky. “I… was humping the pillows… imagining you inside of me again.”
“When you were… touching yourself,” Lumi begins in a whimper. He pauses to bite down again on his hand for comfort. Khimi stops his movements to listen. “I… was humping the pillows… imagining you inside of me again,” he says, sweat dripping down his face.
“You… came from watching me?” Khimi asks, a confident glint in his eyes. He hangs his head and snorts in satisfaction.
“I came just from thinking about you before… at the temple… I pleasured myself at least ten times a day imagining,” Lumi replies, choking on his words. “I hope you don’t think I’m desperate… or anything.”
“Desperate?” Khimi asks, feeling the warmth bloom in his cheeks. “Lumi, I wish I could have been there so you didn’t have to imagine.” He bends forward, placing a kiss against Lumi’s soft nubs.
Lumi’s hole clenches around Khimi’s fingers, the cum he poured into him now leaking out and dripping down his tail. Khimi’s hard again, his cock stirring from Lumi’s words and the erotic sight of Lumi’s writhing body. They stare into one another’s eyes before Lumi mouths the word “please” to Khimi.
Unable to hold back, Khimi brings his thighs beneath Lumi’s ass, his cock twitching even harder as he presses the swollen head against Lumi’s tight, soaked hole. Lumi’s thighs quiver as they wrap around Khimi’s waist. Khimi nudges harder, the blunt crown prying apart Lumi’s soft rim. The resistance is delicious, tight, pulsing, and Lumi gasps, his back arching as the thick shaft breaches him. Inch by agonizing inch, Khimi sinks deeper, Lumi’s body stretching, burning, adjusting around the veined girth. Tears glitter in the corners of Lumi’s eyes, lips parted in silent shock.
“F-fuck,” Lumi whimpers, his voice cracking as Khimi bottoms out, the heavy slap of his balls flush against the swell of his ass.
Khimi grabs Lumi’s hips, his fingers digging in hard enough to bruise. He starts to thrust—deep, savage strokes that rock Lumi’s entire body. Every plunge drives a desperate moan from Lumi’s throat, his nails carving raw lines down Khimi’s scarred back. His breath stutters with each snap of Khimi’s hips.
Khimi leans down, capturing Lumi’s lips in a savage kiss, their tongues tangling in a wet, sloppy dance. Lumi moans into him, clutching him tighter, his body trembling as Khimi pounds into him without mercy. The wet slap of skin-on-skin fills the room, drowning out even their ragged breaths. Sweat rolls down Khimi’s chest, glistening over his taut muscles as he moves with primal urgency, the pressure building fast in his balls. Lumi’s breathing hitches, labored and high. Khimi breaks the kiss, pressing their foreheads together as he glances down; entranced by the sight of his cock vanishing into the boy’s hole again and again.
Little sobs of pleasure tumble from Lumi’s lips as he struggles to catch his breath. “It hurts,” he gasps.
Khimi grits his teeth, his cock throbbing inside Lumi’s tight heat. “You’ll be fine,” he growls, his voice rough with desire. He doesn’t stop, doesn’t slow down, his hips slamming into Lumi’s ass.
Lumi’s arms rise, trembling as they loop around Khimi’s neck, drawing him down until their brows touch again. “Don’t stop,” he whispers, closing his eyes as if to rest.
Khimi threads his fingers through Lumi’s damp hair, holding him close. “Does it still hurt?”
“Just a bit,” Lumi replies, his ears twitching each time Khimi drags his length through him. “You know, I can feel you… just here,” he says, running his hand down his sweat-laden abdomen.
Khimi follows the motion, letting his hand glide over Lumi’s sweat-slicked skin until his fingers press low, against the slight swell where his cock pulses inside. “Here?” he breathes.
“Yes,” Lumi moans, his voice trembling with pleasure. “I can feel you… just there.”
Khimi licks his lips, groaning as he presses down, his palm mapping the outline of himself beneath Lumi’s skin. “Fuck,” he hisses, hips pistoning harder, deeper. The sensation of being so deep, so buried, felt from the inside out, drives him wild.
They had mostly fucked in dim light or darkness, he hadn’t noticed the effect it had on Lumi’s body. Hells, this has to hurt him. There is no way it doesn’t. Khimi looks at Lumi with worry, only to notice the smug expression he wears.
“I told you… I could feel you,” Lumi gasped, his voice breaking as Khimi’s thrusts grew even more savage. “You’re… a lot.”
“You can tell me to stop,” Khimi whispers and brings his hands back behind Lumi’s head.
Lumi scoffs and releases a strangled laugh, his tail slaps against Khimi. “No, it feels… I can’t describe it. It feels heavenly… and I like seeing it, knowing you’re inside of me.”
Drawing their mouths back together, Khimi’s tongue immediately dances with Lumi’s. The silk pillows beneath them give way, and they find themselves on the hard tile floor. Khimi protects Lumi’s head from cracking against the stone with his hands while he continues to relentlessly thrust into him. Fueled by his primal desire to breed, Khimi pulls himself tight, their bodies jammed together. Lumi’s feet dangle behind Khimi’s back, his tail coiling about Khimi’s thigh as if holding on for life.
The scent of their exertions is heavy in the air. Seed and sweat mix between their connected abdomens. The scent of Lumi’s seed only causes Khimi to plunge deeper and more viciously inside. Lumi’s low purrs grow louder throughout their kiss, he pulls back for air, licking Khimi’s cheek passionately. Lick after lick, lap after lap, he does not stop. His tongue runs against Khimi’s skin, longing for his taste. Their tongues meet once more, dancing while Lumi’s head lays back against Khimi’s protective hands. Khimi grunts against Lumi’s lips, holding his kiss. He presses his cock down to the hilt, grinding. Lumi’s soft whimpers fill the room from behind their kiss, and he bites onto Khimi’s lip while Khimi’s cock throbs deep inside of him.
“Fuck,” Khimi growls, against Lumi’s lip. His cock pulses, thick ropes of cum flooding Lumi’s tight hole, filling him to the brim. Lumi’s body convulses with pleasure, his hole milking Khimi for every last drop.
After a moment of silence, Lumi breathes, “So warm.” He releases his grip on Khimi and lets them fall on the tiles at his side.
“It’s a bit warm in here,” Khimi says, somewhat dazed by the encounter. Dizziness washes over him as attempts to hold himself upright.
“I meant… your seed,” Lumi whispers, looking between them at Khimi’s cock still deep inside of him. “Leave it in,” he murmurs, pulling Khimi back on top of him and guiding his hips back against his ass. Slowly, he lowers his head onto the hard tile and closes his eyes.
“I’m sorry that hurt,” Khimi says between labored breaths.
But Lumi just smiles, sated. “I wanted it, I wanted you,” he responds with a playful squeeze of his muscular thighs around Khimi’s waist before goading him even closer.
“I want us to disappear, Lumi,” Khimi says suddenly. “I want us to travel, to go somewhere away from here.” Unsure of his own words, his lip twitches. What am I saying?
“We will,” Lumi prattles happily as he nudges his head against the cold floor. “These weeks spent with you… they’re the first time I’ve ever felt truly happy. Ever.”
“Then I am sorry it took us this long to find each other,” Khimi starts, propping himself up on elbows so as not to put all his weight on Lumi.
“It’s okay. We are together now,” Lumi says with a grin.
“That’s the sad part,” Khimi says, tightening his arms around Lumi’s back. “Imagine all those months that passed.”
“Saint Nina always says, ‘it’s best not to dwell on things we cannot change’,” Lumi replies wisely. “But… don’t let it weigh on you.”
“Why don’t we go to bed?” Khimi suggests, pulling Lumi up from the floor and onto his lap.
“Okay, but you’ll have to carry me,” Lumi says with a playful slap on his ass. “I don’t think my legs can hold me up anymore.”
“I’m feeling quite weak after you sapped me of my strength,” Khimi teases, then pushes himself to his feet. He feels his knee creak slightly from their weight while he stands up straight, Lumi clinging tightly to him. “You’re like a monkey,” he says, chuckling while he carries him to the bed.
“Have you seen many monkeys?” Lumi asks, once Khimi gently places him onto the soft silks of the bed.
“Only occasionally, when merchants from Dolmas cross our paths,” Khimi replies, settling down beside Lumi.
“We can go to Dolmas and see the monkeys then. You know, when we travel,” Lumi whispers. He runs his fingers through Khimi’s damp sable hair, the sweat moistening his fingers.
“Wouldn’t you like to travel somewhere colder?” Khimi asks.
Khimi gradually withdraws from Lumi, his cum trickles from Lumi’s hole. An uncontrollable satisfaction forms across his lips at the image of his work. He’s stuffed. He rolls onto his side next to Lumi and looks into his eyes.
“I’ve never traveled somewhere cold,” Lumi whispers. He twiddles his thumbs over his stomach and looks at Khimi. “I don’t think my garb will be enough if we go much further north of Rhaz.”
“No, I don’t think your loincloth would be sufficient,” Khimi replies, bringing his hand over both of Lumi’s. “Not for the cold at least.”
“But for you?” Lumi whispers.
“It’s plenty enough for me.”
Lumi shifts, turning to face Khimi with a lazy, satisfied grin, his eyes gleaming in the dim light. The indigo sheets pool around them, rich and cool against their skin. Silence drapes over the room, broken only by the soft cadence of their breathing and the quiet, soothing rumble of Lumi’s purrs.
Khimi watches him, a thousand words pressing against his tongue, but none feel right—none feel enough. Instead, he lets his fingers do the speaking, slipping into Lumi’s feathery hair, combing through the strands before trailing down, slow and deliberate, to the twin scars etched along the bridge of his nose. His touch lingers, reverent, tracing the ridges as if committing them to memory all over again.
Do you think we can be happy?
Dishonored
The sunlight pierces through the blue stained-glass window and awakens Khimi. A weight upon him brings his eyes flickering open with surprise. With a gentle breath, he relaxes and brushes his fingers through Lumi’s hair. Lumi purrs as Khimi’s nails scratch behind his rounded ears. He turns his head to face Khimi and rubs the sleep from his eyes.
“Someone knocked on the door earlier, but you didn’t move. I didn’t want to wake you,” Lumi whispers against Khimi’s chest.
“What do you mean?” Khimi asks groggily. His heavy eyes open and close while his vision adjusts to the light.
“You didn’t move… they knocked three or four times,” Lumi replies, looking somewhat uncomfortable. “Should I have gotten the door?” he asks.
“No, no,” Khimi groans, closing his eyes again. His hands move down Lumi’s form, and he grips Lumi’s tail in his hand, gently massaging the base.
“Kh-Khimi,” Lumi moans, pressing his lips against Khimi’s chest. His ears twitch, the pleasure from Khimi’s fingers pinching his tail draws out whimpers.
“Do you want me to stop?” Khimi teases, his hand moves to the area just beneath the tail. His fingers glide down along Lumi’s entrance.
“Keep going,” Lumi whispers. His rough tongue licks Khimi’s chest in one long seductive trail.
“You’re going to be too tired to handle all of your business,” he taunts, wiping his lips of saliva.
“Presumptuous to think you can tire me out,” Khimi scoffs, then clamps his fingers down on the joint along Lumi’s tail.
Lumi’s fangs tease over Khimi’s hard nipple. “Lord Zeybek, you slept like a rock. Don’t tell me I can’t tire you out.”
Khimi smirks at Lumi’s words, his excitement is suddenly cut short by a handful of violent knocks on the door. Lumi’s face flushes with embarrassment, his head turns to the door and Khimi follows, waiting for the knocks to fade. He sighs after more hurried knocks echo through the room. Fuck.
“A moment!” Khimi shouts as he leaps from the bed with an audible growl.
“Khimi!” Rashid calls through the thick doors, his fist banging maliciously. “Khimi, you’re being summoned,” he adds, banging a few more times on the door.
“I guess the fun is over,” Lumi whispers, slipping to the edge of the bed.
“Unfortunately,” Khimi groans and clicks his tongue.
“There will be plenty of good times to come,” Lumi smirks confidently and slap’s Khimi’s bare thigh. “Let’s get dressed,” he says cheerfully, while Khimi gives him a look of reproach.
Khimi watches Lumi begin to dress against the edge of the bed, pulling up the dark stockings. The sight of Lumi wearing the Dolman garb is enough to cause him to go rigid. Air passes through his lips, and he restrains himself by looking away, then crossing the room to the bath. I should have just told Lumi about Omar, he thinks again before he pulls his trousers on, then slides his kaftan sleeves on in his haste. Lumi rushes to him, still partially dressed, and buttons the front of the kaftan. Lumi follows along the line of the buttons in silence, deft in his movements, with a slight redness in his cheeks. He kneels before Khimi, their eyes meet while he slips the babouches onto Khimi’s feet. Khimi covers his mouth, stifling the grin forming on his lips. There had not been many interactions in which Lumi had been so subservient to him.
“You don’t have to… do that,” Khimi mumbles, his hand settling on Lumi’s shoulder with a gentle squeeze.
“I want to.” Lumi’s voice is soft but firm as he slips the second babouche on Khimi’s foot. “Besides, I can’t just sit here watching you dress.”
“You need to finish dressing yourself before you worry about me,” Khimi whispers. Lumi tugs him down by his collar to peck his cheek.
Khimi rubs his hand against the spot in his cheek, unsure of himself. The day Khimi had taken Lumi to the inn, he had taken precautions to somewhat disguise himself from his normal garb in order not to stand out from the crowd. He contemplates his feelings while Lumi stares at him with a weary look in his eyes.
“Do you want me to come with you?” Lumi’s question breaks the quiet, his voice edged with concern.
Khimi doesn’t answer immediately, lost in his thoughts. A future with Lumi—a future at all—feels like a dream he could so easily lose. “Khimi?” Lumi’s voice pulls him back, grounding him just as pounding echoes from the doors.
Khimi’s gaze shifts past Lumi, his jaw tensing. “You should stay here.” His voice hardens as he glances at the door. “I’ve got a full schedule today. It’ll be boring; you wouldn’t want to come along.”
“Better than staying here alone,” Lumi replies, shifting his weight anxiously.
“Lumi—” Khimi says before being interrupted by more loud bangs. “You can come, but there will probably be some things you won’t want to hear.”
“I can handle it!” Lumi exclaims, his ears standing up at Khimi’s words. “I’ll finish getting dressed.”
Khimi sighs and palms his face in dismay. With a quick glance back at Lumi to make sure he is occupied, he hurries to the door. For a moment, he considers leaving him behind before he changes his mind. The key clicks into place and the door pulls almost instantly, an angry Rashid stands there, his face glistening red with sweat.
“Khimi,” an out of breath Rashid heaves, his wrinkled cheeks damp with sweat. “Revya is here. They’re saying ya’ve dishonored Omar’s daughter,” he croaks quietly, peering past Khimi into the room. “Is it true, did ya share a bed with Omar’s daughter?” he asks with puffed cheeks. “Say it isn’t true? Ya didn’t fuck’er?”
A flicker of irritation crosses Khimi’s face as he shakes his head. “If I have to explain to Revya, then I’ll only need to say it once. It’s not what it seems.”
“Ya’d better hope Revya likes what ya have to say then,” Rashid warns, casting a wary glance inside. “Is the acolyte coming along?”
“He asked to come,” Khimi huffs, looking back over his shoulder.
“Is he going to wear that… outfit. He does know it’s what concubines wear, doesn’t he?” Rashid mutters, his tone laced with disapproval. “But actually having an acolyte on y’r side might lend credence to y’r words. But,” he says with a glance at Lumi, “maybe he should put somethin’ else on though.”
“Well, he really seems to think that it’s something they wear at the temple. His teacher gave it to him,” Khimi replies, glancing back while Lumi finishes placing his chest wrap on. “I’m not quite sure what the truth is… but he seems to like wearing it and I think it’s rather… nice.”
“Course ya do,” Rashid snorts, keeping his eyes focused on Khimi. “Either way, having a follower of the Faith with ya will be advantageous, I believe.”
“Khimi, I’m ready,” Lumi calls then runs back to them, embracing Khimi from behind. He peeks his head from around Khimi. “Hello, Rashid,” he whispers, leaning into Khimi.
“I wanted to apologize,” Rashid begins, looking somewhat uncomfortable. “I got a bit carried away, I suppose. Didn’t mean‘ta say ya looked like a whore an’ all that.”
Lumi remains silent, still glancing from behind Khimi while Khimi begins to stroke his hair. “It’s okay, Rashid. Khimi wants us to be friends… So let’s try?”
Khimi sucks his teeth and rolls his eyes. “Let’s go see Revya then, shall we?” he questions, motioning towards the walkway to move past the awkwardness of the exchange.
“Revya?” Lumi asks, clinging onto Khimi while they walk down the cobbled passage.
“He’s the leader of Rhaz,” Rashid explains. They walk towards the central building with pauses around twists and turns. “Every Revya has descended from the same line. Within their blood is that of an Efreet who was known as Revya. Once a descendant takes the role, they must also take the honorific name of Revya as well.”
“It’s a unique… system,” Khimi says, attempting to hold back a laugh. “It’s quite different from Sidi. Sidi is ruled by a secret council, which then seeks the guidance of the Sanctum of Balance.”
“Sidi sounds more confusing,” Lumi says while Khimi puts an arm around his waist. “Does the Revya get to keep their original name?”
“No, whatever their name was is no longer used. They strictly go by Revya. And well, Revya typically is advised by a council of merchants,” Rashid says, turning back to look at the two. “Unfortunately… this allows for the merchants’ interests to also affect the interest of the city… Rhaz has suffered much corruption.”
“Is the current Revya… like that?” Lumi asks with a concerned glance between Rashid and Khimi.
“He mostly keeps to himself,” Khimi replies, his hands resting on Lumi’s bare hips while he pushes him in front.
The three of them walk in silence the remainder of the way. They enter the estate hall before a small group of serving staff hurries alongside, opening the doors ahead of their arrival. The three of them walk across the long marbled hallway where a horned figure stands waiting before two massive iron and elderwood doors. He nods at their approach and heaves one of the large doors wide for them. Khimi steps foot into the room, he is immediately drawn to the woman sitting on a large circular cushion. Her eyes meet his, a feeling of rage begins to fill him. Jilliana… you’ve got some nerve. Across from her, seated with his arms resting almost carelessly on his knees, is Revya. He sits wearing an emerald green silk tunic, a red sash tied around his waist. His cotton sarouel, cinched around his high sandals. Revya turns from the woman, gesturing for the three of them to sit. Khimi takes a cushion near Revya, assuring himself some distance from Jilliana. He sits up in shock while Lumi sits beside him and leans leisurely against him. Rashid glides to the door, closing it gently with a quiet click. He turns back towards everyone, bearing a stoic and contemplative expression.
Revya brushes his dusty brown hair from his eyes. “Well,” he begins in a husky voice, clapping his hand on his knee. “I wish I could be here at the Zeybek Estate under better circumstances. However, it seems that there are some things that need to be addressed,” he pauses, clicking his tongue, then he turns his attention to Jilliana. “A concern was raised by a member of my council that you, Khimi, may have dishonored the young Jilliana—”
Jilliana speaks up, “It’s true—”
“You can speak in turn,” Revya scolds Jilliana sharply, a cold gaze from his burning eyes. “As I was saying. You may have dishonored the young Jilliana here. But as much as I struggle to see the weight behind the claim, I have to do my part as the paragon of justice in Rhaz. So you may continue, Jilliana.”
“Revya, it’s true,” Jilliana says, bowing her head respectfully. “On the night we were hosting a feast, Khimi and I drank together, then shared each other’s company.”
“So, Khimi. Is this true?” Revya asks, turning back to Khimi.
“Mmm,” Khimi sounds, closing his eyes while he mulls over his words. He notices Lumi shifting uncomfortably beside him. “It’s true that we drank, and it is certainly true that we were close. However, as far as dishonoring her… I would never choose that term,” Khimi whispers, his eyes meeting Revya’s. “There are many from that night who can speak on my behalf.”
“Then I trust you can have these individuals brought before me?” Revya asks, a smirk crossing his lips while he runs his fingers against the grain of his beard.
“One is here,” Khimi replies, motioning to Lumi. “As soon as I departed from Omar’s I went straight to the sanctuary to meet him.”
“He truly did come to see me that night—” Lumi begins. A quick motion from Revya silences him.
“Was there anyone who could say with certainty that you did not dishonor her?” Revya asks, raising an eyebrow.
“If you’re asking if someone was in the room, I am certain there was no one,” Khimi replies, shifting uncomfortably on the floor cushion. “Though Ennui came to collect me, and she bore witness to part of the event.”
“So then—” Revya begins before being cut off quickly.
“Khimi is an honorable man,” Lumi prattles in panic, sitting straight. “I swear by the gods that Khimi came to me that night. He told me everything that happened.”
“You’d be wise to teach your cat to speak in turn,” Jilliana spits, eyeing Khimi vehemently. “It is rude to interrupt those of a higher status.”
“I’ll allow his interruption. Though, Jilliana is right. You’d be wise to learn the intricacies of higher society if you intend to spend much time with Lord Zeybek here,” Revya says, sighing with a glare at Khimi. “I can see no easy way to prove your innocence, Khimi. For that I am sorry, so I must take Jilliana’s word. Should she come to term, you will take her hand.”
“I understand your decision, Revya,” Khimi says with a bow. His expression is pained while he looks across the room. “Though, should she come to term, the child won’t be mine,” he says with a certainty, his words cutting and sharp.
“How dare you,” Jilliana says calmly, turning towards Khimi. “You accuse me of lying?”
“I’m saying whatever spawn that comes from your body will not be of my loins,” Khimi says in an equally calm tone, his eyes closed.
“Enough,” Revya chides. “On the subject of blood, should a child be born, I can appeal to the Sepulcher of Rites. They have rituals which can ascertain the true lineage.”
“So then, Jilliana. Have you had enough of this farce?” Khimi asks, smirking. “Even should the child be born, the truth will only reveal your nature. I’d hate to see Omar shamed before a court of his peers,” Khimi adds menacingly.
“Can we appeal to the gods of life?” Lumi asks, looking at Revya with hopeful eyes. “Saint Nina performed a ritual once, and it would force people to speak the truth.”
Revya leans back, closing his eyes as if deep in thought. He sways his head from side to side as if he’s humming a tune in his head. After a moment, he taps his fingers on the marble floor and opens his eyes to stare at Lumi, amusement sitting on his lips.
“I’ll send a request to the Temple of Life and one to the Sepulcher. Should Jilliana refuse or lie during the ritual, assuming they agree to perform it. I will allow Khimi his innocence.” He pauses, looking at Khimi. “However, should she pass their test then you must stay in Rhaz until the time comes for her to give birth to the child,” he pauses once more, looking back to Jilliana. “And should a child be born, the Sepulcher will perform a blood ritual to ascertain the true lineage of the child. Knowing this, do you wish to proceed?” he asks, frowning with glances between the two. “This is all very troublesome,” he mumbles under his breath.
“I-I will only undergo the ritual should I come to term,” Jilliana says, looking somewhat uncomfortable. “Magick makes me uncomfortable. What if it should harm the babe,” she whispers. “I’ve been told that magick has side effects.”
“Even if that magick is gifted by the gods?” Revya asks, a look of disbelief crossing his features. “I cannot imagine the gods would wish to harm an unborn child.”
“I am fine to proceed, I can enjoy some time in Rhaz with Lumi before we depart,” Khimi says in a relaxed tone. “You have all the time you need to make your decision, Lord Revya.”
“So you are willing to also take part in the ritual?” Revya asks Khimi.
“Revya,” a creaking voice says from across the room. “I’d hardly think all of this necessary.” An elderly figure stands from a chair against the wall. “I hope you can glean the truth from their interactions already. Enough time has been wasted. You should have already gathered the truth from their initial interactions.”
“Vizier Leila,” Khimi says, a sudden embarrassed look crossing his face. “Excuse my rudeness, I hadn’t noticed you.”
Where most Revya had been known for their arrogance, their Viziers were not. Vizier Leila is much the same, a woman in her late years who carries herself with an aura of wisdom. She had been the Vizier for the previous two Revya and had overseen many successful treaties between the Desert Cities.
“It’s well you didn’t,” Leila says, removing the cowl from her cloak. “I was able to understand the situation better this way. Revya, I trust you’ve already made your decision,” she says, pulling her gray braid over her shoulders.
“Right… well. I still haven’t quite mastered the art of insight. After all I don’t have seventy years under my belt,” Revya admits with pursed lips, looking hopefully towards Leila. “Perhaps you could offer me some of your infinite wisdom?” he asks, pleading.
“First, never reveal a woman’s age… it’s rude,” Leila chides before she continues, “now then, let Lord Zeybek have his innocence, else Omar will have gotten his hooks into another merchant family,” Leila mutters, walking towards them. “You were wise to offer the solution with your order, aslan,” she adds, tapping a cane twice. “Yet, magick isn’t needed to see the truth. You only need to pay attention.”
“I-I just wanted to help,” Lumi whispers while he itches his chin. “I know Khimi didn’t dishonor anyone… he’s always worried about keeping his family’s honor.”
“Most merchants are concerned about keeping their honor. However, in my years as Vizier, Ziad Zeybek has always been one of the most honest men I’ve ever met,” she says in a reminiscing tone. “I can hardly imagine the apple would fall that far from the tree.”
“That may be,” Jilliana says, standing from her cushion. “Though sometimes, children aren’t just like their parents.”
“Yet,” Leila says, eyeing Jilliana. “I believe sometimes they are, and though you are not Omar’s child… your actions remind me so much of something he would scheme. Could it be that he coerced you into this?” she asks angrily. “Omar has already taken enough from the people of Rhaz…”
“Please, Vizier… we can spare her the embarrassment,” Khimi says, putting his hand on Lumi’s shoulder. “She is just another pawn in Omar’s schemes.”
“If you’re to continue insulting my family, I would like to take my leave,” Jilliana says, looking at Revya for approval. “May I?”
“You’re welcome to take your leave,” Revya says, gesturing towards the door. “Please give Omar my regards. Tell him that I’ll be in touch soon.”
The room grows silent, and Jilliana offers a quick bow to Revya before departing. She gives the Vizier an uncomfortable glance from the corner of her eye while she walks past her. Leila moves out of the way to allow the red-haired woman to pass. The echoes of Jilliana’s footfalls slowly fade, the remainder of the group picks up their conversation.
“Then you’ll allow me to enter and exit the city freely then, Revya?” Khimi questions and turns to face him.
“I’ve no intention of keeping you here. Though, I do think it wise to stay around and keep your affairs in order. Without a doubt, rumors are likely spreading about Jilliana and yourself,” Revya says firmly. “Though,” he begins once again, forcing himself to stand. “That is not something for me to concern myself with. Anything that happens now is between you and Omar. It has nothing to do with Rhaz.”
“It is understood,” Khimi replies, giving a gentle bow. “Revya’s duty does not involve him putting an end to rumors. We will see to that ourselves. We thank you for today’s judgment and pray that you find shade.”
“I pray that you may find shade as well,” Revya says, giving a slight bow, he takes Leila’s arm into his own. “Come along, Leila. Best not to dawdle. You can scold me in front of my peers at the palace.”
“Thank you,” Lumi mutters, attempting to hide his excitement. He begins to rise, but is quickly pulled back down to the cushion by Khimi.
The two sit in silence, the footfalls of Revya and the Vizier fade into the distance. Rashid follows the two figures from the room, closing the door behind him. Khimi stares at Lumi in the silence of the room. The awkwardness in the air is still thick after the meeting. I wonder what he must think of me. Khimi reaches a hand out to Lumi’s shoulder, his fingertips move along to Lumi’s collarbone.
“I promise… it was as I said in the meeting,” Khimi begins. “I did not violate her. Everything was as I told you that night. You seem frustrated.”
“I’m not frustrated with you,” Lumi grumbles. “I felt my heart beating through my chest… I wanted to rip that woman’s throat out,” he growls. “How can someone just lie like that and try to ruin someone’s life?!”
“I don’t think that would have helped our case…” Khimi whispers, his fingers tightening on Lumi’s shoulder.
“I don’t care,” Lumi sighs loudly. “That woman was trying to trap you… even I could see that. Khimi, let’s leave Rhaz. We can always come back!”
“Revya has the truth of it,” Khimi replies, looking at Lumi with a stern expression. “If I leave now, it’ll look to the public like an admission of guilt,” he adds, wrapping his arms around Lumi’s waist and drawing him close. “What if I can make it up to you?”
“What are you thinking?” Lumi asks, suppressing a light laugh while he begins to rub his chest against Khimi.
“Have you ever been sailing?” Khimi asks and plants a kiss between Lumi’s ears, which twitch in response.