The water in the large tub was still warm as I laid in it, my hair floating around me, each individual strand distinctive underneath the clear water. I tried not to move, fearing that if I did, the water would shift and splash onto the hardwood floor. Closing my eyes, I felt my body relax, letting the warmth of the water calm my nerves. It had been a month since I had met Delmare, and nearly the same amount of time that I had spent dating him.

We haven't kissed yet despite the bond begging us to an...