Helena jumped as Romeo scooped her into his arms and carried her into the pool, submerging them in the cold water together.
"Damn, that's cold," Romeo complained as they surfaced.
"I think it's to discourage us from desacrating the temple," Helena giggled.
Romeo smiled and pulled her close. He placed his hand at the back of her head and kissed her.
Helena wrapped her arms and legs around Romeo and kissed him back.
Here, in front of the Moon Goddess, she didn't dare hide how she felt about him. Despite her desires to fight the pull of the mate bond, despite her fears over what loving too much could do, she let herself give in to her emotions and to kiss Romeo like she would if they were truly mated.
"I love you," Romeo said as he rested his head against hers.
"Rome—"
"You don't have to say it back. I just want you to know that I love you, and I can't wait to share my future with you," he told her.
Helena pulled him in for another kiss, pouring all her emotions into the kiss.
