Restraint

Joseph stood in the dark room. He could hear the ocean outside. He could hear her breathing.

Rosa Sharon reached out. Her fingers grazed his arm. She felt the muscle tense.

-Why fight it? she asked.

He kissed her again. This time, there was no hesitation. He surrendered.

His hands found her curves. They stumbled toward the bedroom. The bed was stripped, just a mattress protector.

They tumbled onto it.

He peeled the sweater off her. He unhooked the bra.

She straddled him. She helped him with his belt. Her hands shook.

Then the leggings. She kicked them off. She sat back on her heels, wearing nothing but a scrap of lace.

He pulled the lace aside. He touched her.

-Are you sure you want to do this? he asked.

She looked at him. The room was dark.

-It’s the point of no return, he said.

She took his hand. She placed it over her heart. It was hammering against her ribs.

He grabbed her waist. He pulled her down.

He buried his face in her.

She gasped. She tangled her fingers in his hair.

When she finished, she collapsed against him. The room spun.

She lay there for a long time. Then she realized something.

-You didn't... she said.

He smoothed her hair.

-No.

She blinked.

-Why?

She touched his cheek.

-It’ll be special the first time we make love, he said. I know you need time.

-I do, she said.

He pulled her into the crook of his shoulder.

They fell asleep.