The wooden door creaker as Ethan pushed it open, revealing the bridal chamber.
A soft, golden glow from dozens of flickering candles danced across the room, their light catching the nervous twist of Diana's fingers in the fabric of her dress.
Her eyes darted to him who walked through a wide and dark corridor.
Ethan closed the door with a thud.
His gaze never wavered from hers as he crossed the room, his steps slow and measured on the plush rug.
He could feel the anxiety rolling off her in waves, a palpable tension that thickened the warm, honey-scented air.
His hands moved to cradle her face, his thumbs stroking the high curve of her cheeks with a tenderness that made her breath catch.
"Shh, it's alright," he murmured, his voice a low, soothing rumble. "You don't have to be nervous with me."
